a 
sate "a 
ses 


Pe~ 
Wn 
te 


WEIR 


rt 
, 


Fa 8 Oy 
Myntngttard Ant ate 


Honea hadnt 
- Shee + 
US 


it 


i 


LIBRARY OF THE 
UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS 
AT URBANA-CHAMPAIGN 


61 9 pe 
G86m 


BE Oils 
Ae een ie ae 
Ae 4 ai 


= 
’ A a be 
9 7: ‘i 
i. via io 
, Ly) J 
] i - 
: we £5 1% F ; 
t 7A i, 
° : 
Ty" s ' 
Ava 
' ray ' 
) 4, _ 
bay) Ga 
’ 
ar 
ne 
, Be 1 ‘ 
rier 
hn Ps 
any 
Bie 
; is 
, 
oe, f ’ 
1 
x! P| 
a 
> ‘ 
4 ”, 
ard ‘ 
. ) 
eae 
2 4 
7 
f 
lw Oe ‘ 
Ne A 
1 Sy Se 
? 4 
- et iy } q 
oe 5 
ie ty . 
i aay, 
2 ¥ 
d ¥ 4 | 
: : id 
s le ® iL . 
. > has | “ 
}, é ¥ 
Yin le F 
’ 
vs { 
: 
{ 
=e. 
) 
9 
A. 4 


A Bei 
‘ oy al i ‘ 
i+ : 
pa ‘ ” ‘ % 
4g > 
bh —~ * 
Ae i 
le Ny 
7 ah 
f 
r ) : » 
P ‘ 
ait ‘ i 
ee i , 
“ < 
y \ ‘; ‘ 
it ir 
* . 7. an 
‘ fi F 
‘ : 4 4 ‘y 
, °'f 
re m 
‘ 4 , f 
‘i AY 
. vey it 1's 
( § ‘ t u 
i rs Ort 4 
i? §, i 
( ‘gid ". 
- i 
‘os hy 
re away ‘i \y t 
, : 
} ; ‘ 
a) Ps | 
A : 


et >« . 
. 
° . ~y . 
. v 
i, : 
s 
' 
. ‘ 
$ 4 
’ 
. 
i . 
‘ 
® - 
Te 
4 . 
lo . ‘ 
i> », 7 f.. 
a hi. 7 
* ; i 
“a a vy *. . ¥ 
) Ae mv « { 
& ’ . 
ve e* . 
we a 4 s ; . 


y > e : a , i ape’ : 2 ‘ 


BACILLUS ANTHR AGH 
From CoRRADO TomMMASI CRUDELL 


fig i | ; 


Fig. 1.—- Vertical Section of a Malignant Pustule of Man, showing nests 
of Bacillus Anthracis in the tissues of the Skin. x 620 diameters. 


a 
Ne ON ~ ; a 4 
% a % ; \ 
me ~ a i \ 
t. X la | 
rs 


et § 
we Sd \ 
| Fig. 2.—Section of Kidney of a Rabbit Fig. 3.—Bacillus Arthracis 
that died in consequence of carbuneular Srom Malignant Pustule 
infection, showing accumulations of x 1040 times. 


Bacillus Anthracis in the Malpighian 
Glomeruli and in the capillary network 
of the Kidney. x 90 diameters. 


A MANUAL 


| 


THEORY AND PRACTICE 


EQUINE MEDICINE. 


BY 


JAMES BRODIE GRESSWELL, 


MEMBER OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF VETERINARY SURGEONS. 
VETERINARY INSPECTOR FOR THE LINDSEY DIVISION AND FOR THE BOROUGH OF 
LOUTH, LINCOLNSHIRE. 

AUTHOR OF ‘A REPORT ON ARSENICAL POISONING OF THE DOMESTICATED ANIMALS 
AND ON THE TREATMENT OF SOME OF THEIR ZYMOTIC DISEASES,’ AND OF 
ARTICLES ON TETANUS AND COMPARATIVE SPHYGMOGRAPHY, 


' AND \ 


ALBERT GRESSWELL, 


MEMBER OF THE ROYAL COLLEGE OF SURGEONS OF ENGLAND, 

LATE OPEN SCHOLAR IN PHYSICAL SCIENCE OF CHRIST CHURCH, OXFORD, / 

GRADUATE IN HONOURS IN THE FINAL SCHOOL OF PHYSIOLOGY AND COMPARATIVE } 
. ANATOMY, OXFORD, ETC., ETC. 


LONDON : 
Peeotmhh TINDALL, AND COX, 
20, KING WILLIAM STREET, STRAND. 
NEW YORK: WILLIAM R. JENKINS. 


1885. 


— ATT 


j th xl . 
_ is i? 
. ‘ PAE : 
a rv 
i ee ies £) 
oe. : . t : f 
- ne, bg “ . & i) Op 
31 er ee Ht le — 
iQ A Fz . ; = 
a x | “ ek 
\ y A ‘ 
oo % San 7 3 A f 
S a 
a » * “ 4 ’ 
hag a Py .s 
’ : s 
ne ‘ y nd i 
A 


3 ! ict = 
THIS LITTLE MANUAL IS 


PBespecttally Dedicated, a 


e3 SLIGHT TOKEN OF ESTEEM TO ONE WHO, Ber. | 
: AS A STATESMAN, ; 
“ Se via mas DONE SO MUCH TO PROMOTE THE 
| _ INTERESTS OF AGRICULTURE; : 
oa “ax JIN GRATEFUL RECOGNITION OF PAST KINDNESSES, 
BY 
THE AUTHORS. 
i 
‘ 
4 | 


iis 


‘ 
* 
‘ 
‘ 
‘ 
. 
- 
co 


é ‘ ir ae . ea" 
Bits Miedids faved Oh 5 8 we pent 
4 . ’ ear " 


wa 


NY 


i? 


¢ 


> 
/ 


PREFACE 


IN preparing the first of these Manuals of Veterinary 
Science, it has been our object to bring the chief facts 
of Equine Medicine and Pathology before the reader in as 
concise and clear a manner as possible. | 

It is our hope, regarding the many and great difficulties 
which are necessarily encountered in a work of this kind, 
that allowance will be made for errors of omission and 
commission which may be detected. 


We have adopted a somewhat different classification of | 


disease from that in vogue, and trust that its greater 
simplicity will entail less labour on the part of the student, 
without rendering it any the less scientific. 

Throughout we have endeavoured to lay stress on those 
points which are of very great interest and importance 
from a comparative pathological point of view. 

Into the histological structure of the malignant growths 
of the horse we have, purposely, not fully entered, it 
being our purpose to publish, as soon as opportunity arises, 
a monograph on the comparative pathology and etiology of 
the malignant growths in man and animals. 


= 


v1 PREFACE. 


In the treatment of disease we have followed more 
especially the methods adopted by the late Mr. D. Gress- 
well, F.R.C.V.S., and those which practical experience 
leads us to consider of the greatest value. 

We have appended chapters on Entozoa and Toxicology, 
_ as we consider both these subjects of great importance to 
the veterinary practitioner. 


VETERINARY INSTITUTION, 
LoutH, LINCOLNSHIRE. 
November, 1884. 


PREFACE 


INTRODUCTORY - 


On THE CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND GLASSIFICATION OF 


ETIOLOGY 


SEMEIOLOGY 


NOSOLOGY - 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY 
CONGESTION, OR HYPERAMIA 
INFLAMMATION — 
THROMBOSIS 


EMBOLISM - 


HEMORRHAGE 


DROPSY 


HYPERTROPHY 


ATROPHY 


DEGENERATIONS 


FEVER 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER I. 


CHAPTER II. 


COLLAPSE AND SYNCOPE 5 


DEATH 


DISEASE 


i 


io TR (| 


Vill 


CONTENTS. 


CHAPTER III. 


THE VEGETABLE PARASITES 


THE GERM THEORY - 


THE BACTERIA, OR SCHIZOMYCETES 


PASTEUR’S METHOD OF PREPARING ‘VACCINE,’ OR ATTENUATED 


VIRUS OF ANTHRAX 
THE BLASTOMYCETES - 
THE HYPHOMYCETES - 


CHAPTER IV. 


GENERAL DISEASES : 


FEBRICULA, OR SIMPLE FEVER 
STRANGLES - 
INFLUENZA - 


GLANDERS AND FARCY—EQUINIA 


ACUTE FARCY . 
CHRONIC FARCY % 
VARIOLA EQUINA- - 
ERYSIPELAS : 
CEREBRO-SPINAL FEVER 
ANTHRAX - ~ 
ANTHRACOID DISEASES 
ANTHRACOID ANGINA 
THE LOODIANAH DISEASE 
THE CAPE HORSE-SICKNESS 
PYEMIA AND SEPTICAMIA 
SURRA - : 
MALADIE DU COIT - 
PURPURA HE#MORRHAGICA 
SCARLATINA—SCARLET FEVER 
RABIES - , 
RHEUMATISM ‘ 
ACUTE - " 
CHRONIC : 
MUSOULAR 


101 
101, 
103 
104 


OO 


CONTENTS. 1X 
PAGE 
GENERAL DISEASES—continued. 
SCROFULA AND TUBERCULOSIS - - - - 104 
LYMPHANGITIS - . - - - 106 
BURSATEE - : - - - = | EG 
DIABETES - x ye : . re 5 
DIABETES INSIPIDUS - - - oui Ee 
DIABETES MELLITUS - - - + 505 
AZOTURIA - : : - - - 116 
OXALURIA - - - - - 120 
STOMATITIS PUSTULOSA CONTAGIOSA - - - ]2] 
CHAPTER V. 

DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS ~~ - = + 124 

METHODS OF PHYSICAL EXAMINATION, AND THE SIGNS 
AFFORDED BY THEM : . : - ot 
INSPECTION, PALPATION, PERCUSSION, AND AUSCULTATION - 124 

CERTAIN SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH DISORDER OF THE 
RESPIRATORY ORGANS - - - ~). Sos 
GRUNTING, COUGHING, WHISTLING, ROARING . - 131 
ACUTE CATARRH - ay. - - - 137 
CHRONIC NASAL CATARRH ~ - - =’ 16s 
DISEASES OF THE LARYNX . : : - 140 
ACUTE LARYNGITIS = - “ - 140 
(DEMATOUS LARYNGITIS - - - - 140 
DISEASES OF THE BRONCHI_~ - - - - 142 
ACUTE CATARRHAL BRONCHITIS - : - 4142 
SECONDARY BRONCHITIS _ - ' : - 145 
MECHANICAL BRONCHITIS - - : 2), aS 
CHRONIC BRONCHITIS - : : - 148 
DISEASES OF THE LUNGS - ! - - 149 
CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS - - - - 149 
PNEUMONIA—INFLAMMATION OF THE LUNGS meee tt: 
ACUTE, PLASTIC, CROUPOUS, OR LOBAR PNEUMONIA - 154 
CATARRHAL, LOBULAR, OR BRONCHO-PNEUMONIA - 154 
CHRONIC OR INTERSTITIAL PNEUMONIA : - J54 


x CONTENTS. 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS—continued. 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND - - - 164 
ASTHMA 2 - - : - 164 
BROKEN WIND - 4 - - - 166 

PLEURITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE PLEURAL MEMBRANE - 172 
CHAPTER VI. 

DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM - - ». 179 

PHYSICAL EXAMINATION OF THE HEART AND PERICARDIUM 179 

CARDIAC IMPULSE - - . : 47D 

CARDIAC SOUNDS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE : - 180 
ENDOCARDIAL MURMURS’ - - - - 182 
EXOCARDIAL MURMURS~ - - - - 183 

GENERAL OBJECTIVE SYMPTOMS OF CARDIAC DISEASE - 184 

PALPITATION = - = - - 184 

IRREGULARITY 3 : - . - 185 

INTERMITTENCE~ - - : : - 185 

CYANOSIS - -- - - - 186 

ACUTE AFFECTIONS OF THE HEART - - > SS 
ACUTE ENDOCARDITIS - - - - 186 
MYOCARDITIS - - - - ,- 188 

CHRONIC AFFECTIONS OF THE HEART - - - 189 

ENLARGEMENT OF THE HEART - - 189 

ATROPHY OF THE HEART~ - - - - 190 

CHRONIC VALVULAR AFFECTIONS - - - 191 
MITRAL REGURGITATION - . - - 192 
MITRAL OBSTRUCTION - - - - 1938 
TRICUSPID REGURGITATION- - : - - 193 
AORTIC OBSTRUCTION - - - - 1938 
AORTIC REGURGITATION” - - - - 193 

TREATMENT OF CHRONIC VALVULAR AFFECTIONS - - 194 

DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF THE HEART - - - 194 

FATTY DEGENERATION OF THE HEART - - - 194 
FATTY INFILTRATION - - - - 195 
FATTY METAMORPHOSIS ~ - - - - 195 


CALCAREOUS DEGENERATION OF THE HEART - - 106 


CONTENTS. Xl 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM—continued. me 
RUPTURE OF THE HEART - - - - 195 
NEW FORMATIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THE HEART - 196 
ANGINA PECTORIS” - - ; : - 197 
DISEASES OF THE PERICARDIUM - : = 17 

ACUTE PERICARDITIS - : - - AF 
HYDROPS PERICARDII : - - - 200 
CHAPTER VII. 

DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SYSTEM - : + 20 

GENERAL REMARKS ON DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY CANAL - 201 
§ 1. DISEASES OF THE MOUTH AND THROAT - - ‘202 

STOMATITIS ; SIMPLE, VESICULAR, AND PUSTULAR - 202 
GLOSSITIS - - - - 204 
PAROTITIS” - : - : - 204 
PTYALISM—SALIVATION - - : - 205 
ACUTE PHARYNGEAL CATARRH - - - 905 
POST-PHARYNGEAL ABSCESS - : - 206 

§ 2. DISEASES OF THE G@SOPHAGUS - - - “207 
INFLAMMATION OF THE GSOPHAGUS - - 907 
STRICTURE OF THE @SOPHAGUS - - 207 
SPASM OF THE @SOPHAGUS - - - 208 

§ 3. DISEASES OF THE STOMACH - : - 208 
GENERAL REMARKS ON SOME GASTRIC SYMPTOMS - 208 
FLATULENCE : - - - 208 
VOMITING OR EMESIS - - . 209 
INDIGESTION OR DYSPEPSIA - - - 210 
ACUTE INDIGESTION - - - «FG 
CHRONIC INDIGESTION - - - 212 
INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH—GASTRITIS -)" Qe 
ACUTE GASTRITIS . : - ++ 2h 
CHRONIC GASTRITIS - - - ~ Qe 
RUPTURE OF THE STOMACH - - - 215 

§ 4. DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES : - = ig 


ON SOME IMPORTANT SYMPTOMATIC CONDITIONS AND 
FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS OF THE INTESTINES Ry A Ts 


Xil CONTENTS. 


PAGE 
DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SystEmM—continued. 


CONSTIPATION - . - = we 

DIARRH@A - ; - - 219 

COLIC - Wd ke - - - 223 

INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION - - = 7227 

RUPTURE OF THE INTESTINE : | - - 229 

ENTERITIS—INFLAMMATION OF THE BOWELS- - 230 

DYSENTERY - - - : - 236 

$5. DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM - - - 2389 

PERITONITIS - - - - 289 

ASCITES’ - - - - -) (241 

MORBID GROWTHS IN CONNECTION WITH THE PERITONEUM 243 

HYDATID CYSTS, CANCEROUS GROWTHS -_ - 243 

FATTY GROWTHS AND FIBROID TUMOURS - - 243 

$6. DISEASES OF THE LIVER - - - - 244 
GENERAL PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL CONSIDER- 

ATIONS - - - - - 244 


CONGESTION OF THE LIVER—INTERSTITIAL HEPATITIS - 245 
ACTIVE CONGESTION, PASSIVE CONGESTION, AND 


BILIARY CONGESTION - - - 245 
HEPATITIS—INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER - - 248 
INFLAMMATION OF THE CAPSULE OF THE LIVER— 
PERI-HEPATITIS — - rane : - PF 248 
INFLAMMATION OF THE GLAND-TISSUE—HEPATITIS - 248 
CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER — CHRONIC INTERSTITIAL 
HEPATITIS - es : - 249 
FATTY LIVER - - - - 250 
LARDACEOUS LIVER - - - - 261 
HYDATID TUMOURS AND OTHER MORBID GROWTHS OF 
THE LIVER : : . -) 2ol 
CANCEROUS DEPOSITS : - - 262 
MELANOTIC DEPOSITS - - - ~) 252 
LYMPHOID TUMOURS - - - - 252 
JAUNDICE—ICTERUS - - - ‘- 252 
TESTS FOR BILE PIGMENT AND BILE ACIDS - 253 


§ 7. DISEASES OF THE SPLEEN- - - - 254 


CONTENTS. 


DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SysTEM—continued. 
GENERAL PHYSIOLOGICAL CONSIDERATIONS 
ENLARGEMENT OF THE SPLEEN 


LYMPHADENOMA OF THE SPLEEN - 


OTHER MORBID GROWTHS OF THE SPLEEN 


CHAPTER VIII. 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM 


THE URINE IN HEALTH AND IN DISEASE 


THE URINE IN HEALTH # 
UREA - - 2 
URIC ACID = - 
HIPPURIC ACID “ - 
EXTRACTIVES - * 
PIGMENTARY MATTER S 
INORGANIC SALTS - = 
THE URINE IN DISEASE = 


INCREASE OR DIMINUTION OF THE NORMAL CONSTITUENTS 
ABNORMAL CONSTITUENTS PRESENT IN THE URINE 


BLOOD - - 3 
BLOOD-CASTS - - 
ALBUMEN - - 
BILE ACIDS AND BILE PIGMENT 
GRAPE SUGAR . - 
PUS AND MUCUS - | : 

§ 1. DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS 

RENAL CONGESTION - 


IN DISEASE 


INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS—NEPHRITIS 
LARDACEOUS DEGENERATION OF THE KIDNEY 


MELANOTIC TUMOURS AND HYDATIDS 
RENAL AND URETERAL CALCULI 
ANALYSIS OF RENAL CALCULI 


§ 2. DISEASES OF THE BLADDER 


CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 


RETENTION OF URINE  - 
INCONTINENCE OF URINE 


BLADDER 


X1V 


CONTENTS. 


DISEASES OF THE REPRODUCTORY SYSTEM 


CHAPTER IX. 


HYSTERIA - - - ~ = 
PARTURIENT FEVER - - - = & 
ACUTE METRITIS - - - Z , 
INFLAMMATION OF THE OVARIES, OVARITIS, OOPHORITIS - 


CHAPTER X. 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM - - - 


GENERAL REMARKS ON THE STRUCTURE AND FUNCTIONS OF 
THE NERVOUS SYSTEM, AND ON THE LOCALIZATION OF 
NERVOUS DISEASES - : * - 

CEREBRO-SPINAL SYSTEM : . : 3 
SYMPATHETIC SYSTEM - - : 3 
CONVULSIONS AND SPASMS : - 5 
TREMORS E . : : . 
CHOREIC MOVEMENTS - - : : 
TRUE CONVULSIONS - : 4 % 
MOTOR PARALYSIS—PARESIS ~~ - - ‘ 5 
GENERAL PARALYSIS . : 4 
HEMIPLEGIA - 2 § 2 
PARAPLEGIA - s é ‘ i 

HYPEREZSTHESIA, DYSHSTHESIA, ANESTHESIA - - 

COMA AND INSENSIBILITY - . : he 

STAGGERS - “ 3 ts s 7 

MAD-STAGGERS, STOMACH-STAGGERS, GRASS-STAGGERS, EPI- 
LEPSY, MEGRIMS, AND VERTIGO ae i : 

§ 1. DISEASES OF THE BRAIN - : . : 
ACUTE INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN AND ITS MEM- 
BRANES - : u ‘ 
CHRONIC DISEASES OF THE BRAIN - - 
CHRONIC MENINGITIS - i . : 
CEREBRAL SOFTENING : : ; 
HYDROCEPHALUS C : fs 
TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE CEREBRAL 
STRUCTURES - - or P 


PAGE 


273 
273 
274 
274 
276 


278 


278 
279 
282 
283 
283 
283 
283 
283 
284 
284 
284 
285 
286 
286 


287 
288 


288 
292 
292 
292 
292 


296 


CONTENTS. XV 


c PAGE 
DISEASES OF THE NeERvous SysteEmM—continued. 


TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE CRANIAL WALLS - 296 
‘ TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE BRAIN AND THE 


MENINGES - - - - 296 
1. TUMOURS OF THE CHOROID PLEXUS~ - - 297 
2. CANCER - - - - - 298 
3. MELANOSIS - - - - 298 
4, GLIOMA - - - - - 298 
5. FIBROMA - - - - 298 
6. PARASITIC GROWTHS : - - 298 
SYMPTOMS OF TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE BRAIN 
AND ITS MENINGES - - - 299 
TREATMENT - - - - 300 
DISEASES DEPENDING UPON ALTERATIONS IN THE 
CEREBRAL CIRCULATION - - - $800 
MEGRIMS, OR CEREBRAL HYPERZMIA e - 3800 
CEREBRAL ANEMIA - - - - $802 
CEREBRAL EMBOLISM AND THROMBOSIS~ - - 802 
CEREBRAL HEMORRHAGE, OR APOPLEXY - - $803 
§ 2. DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD - - - 304 
INFLAMMATION OF THE SPINAL CORD AND ITS MEMBRANES 304 
SPINAL HHMORRHAGE - - pee - $809 
TUMOURS AND ADVENTITIOUS GROWTHS IN CONNECTION 
WITH THE CORD - - - - 309 
SCLEROSIS OF THE NERVE-CENTRES - - $312 
CHOREA - - - - - $814 
EPILEPSY - - - - - $316 
TETANUS OR LOCK-JAW - - . - $819 
ENZOOTIC PARAPLEGIA—GRASS-STAGGERS~ - - $29 


CHAPTER XI. 


Equing ENnt0z0a - - ~ - - 9832 
§ 1. TREMATODA, OR FLUKES - . : - $32 
FASCIOLA HEPATICA - - : - 332 
AMPHISTOMA COLLINSII AND STANLEYI - - 333 


GASTRODISCUS SONSINONIS - - = ooo 


XVI CONTENTS. 


PAGE 
Equine EntTozoa—continued. 

§ 2. CESTODA, OR TAPEWORMS - - - - 3833 
LIFE-HISTORY OF A TAPEWORM - - - 333 
1. THENIA PLICATA - - - - 3834 
2. ‘5,  PERFOLIATA - - - - 334 
lo» | MAMULLANA >= : : - 3834 
CESTODE EPIZOOTY - - - - 3835 
SOURCE OF THE TAPEWORMS OF THE HORSE - 3385 
LARVAL FORMS OF TEHNIZ - - - 3835 
CYSTICERCUS, CHNURUS, ECHINOCOCCUS’ - - $835 
LARVAL FORMS OF THENIZ OF THE HORSE - - 335 
1. ECHINOCOCCUS VETERINORUM - | Sao 
2. CHNURUS CEREBRALIS . - - 336 
3. CYSTICERCUS FISTULARIS : - - 337 
§ 3. NEMATODES, OR ROUND-WORMS - - - 337 
1. ASCARIS MEGALOCEPHALA-~ - . » Bor 
2. STRONGYLUS ARMATUS . - - 3838 
VERMINOUS ANEURISM -, : - 339 
3. STRONGYLUS TETRACANTHUS - - - 3840 
4, OXYURIS CURVULA aoe - - 342 
fh. SPIROPTERA MEGASTOMA ~~ - : - 342 
6. SPIROPTERA MICROSTOMA - - - 3438 
7. STRONGYLUS MICRURUS - - - 3843 
8. STRONGYLUS GIGAS - - - 3843 
9. FILARIA LACHRYMALIS . - - 9843 
10, FILARIA PAPILLOSA - - - 343 
11. FILARIA SANGUINIS EQUI : - - 3844 
§ 4. G@STRIDH, OR GADFLIES- - : : - 344 
GASTROPHILUS EQUI - : - - 344 
a HZMORRHOIDALIS - - - 9845 
- NASALIS - - - 3845 

CHAPTER XII. 
TOXICOLOGY - - - - - - 846 
ARSENICAL POISONING - - - - 346 


TESTS FOR ARSENIC . - - - 852 


CONTENTS. 


Tox1coLocy—continued. 


LEAD POISONING —PLUMBISM—SATURNINE EPILEPSY — LEAD 


PALSY - 
ACUTE LEAD POISONING 
CHRONIC LEAD POISONING 


METHOD OF DETECTION OF LEAD 


ABSORPTION OF LEAD 
ANTIMONY POISONING 
YEW-TREE FOLIAGE - 
CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE 
HELLEBORE 7 

METHOD OF DETECTION OF 
OPIUM - - 
SAVIN - = 
BRYONY - - 
WATER DROP-WORT - 
EUPHORBIUM - 
CANTHARIDES : 


INDEX - 4 


HELLEBORE 


LIST OF WORKS CONSULTED. 


Aitken’s ‘Science and Practice of Medicine.’ 

Bristow’s ‘Theory and Practice of Medicine.’ 

Cobbold’s ‘ Entozoa in Man and Animals.’ 

Cornil and Ranvier’s ‘ Manual of Pathoiogical Histology.’ 
Fleming’s ‘ Animal Plagues.’ 

Gamgee’s ‘ Domesticated Animals in Health and Disease.’ 
Gaudry’s ‘Les Animaux Fossiles.’ 

Green’s ‘Pathology and Morbid Anatomy.’ 

Klein and Smith’s ‘ Atlas of Histology.’ 

Lyell’s ‘Geology.’ 

Percivall’s ‘ Hippopathology.’ 

Reynold’s ‘System of Medicine.’ 

Robertson’s ‘ Practice of Equine Medicine.’ 

Taylor on ‘ Poisons.’ 

Williams’ ‘ Principles and Practice of Veterinary Medicine.’ 
Wilson’s ‘ Hygiene.’ 


WAVE, Saas 


A MANUAL OF THE THEORY 
AND PRACTICE OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 
INTRODUCTORY. 


THE Ungulata, or Hoofed Quadrupeds, one of the largest 
natural orders of the Mammalia, are classified into two 
sub-orders, according as the animals have an odd or an even 
number of toes on the hind-foot. Those which have an 
odd number on the hind-foot aré termed Perissodactyla 
(wepiooos, odd, and daxrudos, toe), and those which have an 
even number are termed Artiodactyla (aprws, even, and 
daxrvaos, toe). 

To the latter group belong such animals as the Pig, Hip- 
popotamus, Sheep, Ox, Camel, Giraffe, and Deer. The 
Tapir, Horse, and Rhinoceros make up the former group. 

The Artiodactyla are divided into two classes: the Rumi- 
nantia, and the Non-Ruminantia. 

The Ruminantia include the Sheep, Ox, Camel, Giraffe, 
and Deer; and the Non-Ruminantia include the Pig and 
Hippopotamus, 

All the Ungulata, excepting the Pig and Peccary, which 
are omnivorous, feed upon vegetables. Their placentation 
is non-deciduate, and in this they agree with the order of 
the Cetacea; and they are always adapted for swift pro- 
gression. 

1 


2 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The sub-order Perissodactyla comprises three living 
families: the Tapiride, or Tapirs; the Equide, or Horses ; 
and the Rhinocerotide, or Rhinoceroses. There are also 
several extinct families: the Macraucheniade (waxpos, long, 
and auyzy, neck); the Paleotheres (tara, old, and éneroy, 
beast); and the Lophodontia (Aogos, a crest, and ddous, 
a tooth). 

The Perissodactyles have no fewer than twenty-two dorsi- 
lumbar vertebre. They have a third trochanter on the 
femur, and the third digit of each foot is symmetrical. 
Horns, when present on the head, are only skin deep, are 
always placed on the middle line of the skull, as in the 
Rhinoceros, and have no bony core. 

The number of toes in the Perissodactyles is reduced to 
a@ minimum. 

The hind-foot of the Tapir has three well-developed toes, 
and these are homologous with the second, third, and fourth 
digits of man. 

In the Rhinoceros all the feet are provided with three 
toes formed of the same three digits. 

In the Horse there are further reductions ; for that digit 
which corresponds with the third or middle digit of man is 
the only one which remains intact. There are, however, 
two rudimentary digits in addition, and these are called 
the splint-bones. ‘They are homologous with the second 
and fourth digits of man. 

The Perissodactyles are first represented in geological 
strata of the Old World by the Lophodontia. ‘These ex- 
tinct forms, which are found in the Eocene strata of France 
and England, were closely allied to the Artiodactyles. 
As in the latter, their pre-molar teeth were simpler and 
longer than the molar teeth. The feet of the Lophodons, 
however, were of the Perissodactyle type. 

Of all existing Ungulate animals, the Lophodon comes 


INTRODUCTORY. 3 


nearest to the Tapirs, which are the most lowly differen- 
tiated of existing Perissodactyles. 

The Lophodon is hence regarded as the ancestral form of 
the modern Tapiride. 

The Acerotherium is the earliest representative of the 
Rhinoceros, and is met with in the Miocene strata of 
the Old World. 

The Palzeotheres first occur in the Eocene strata of 
Europe and North America. They varied in size from 
that of a Roedeer to that of a Tapir, and their molar teeth 
resembled, in the pattern of the grinding surface, those of 
_ the Rhinoceros. 

They are allied on the one hand with the Horse and 
Rhinoceros, and through the Macraucheniade on the other 
with the Camels and Tapirs. 

Palzotherium Magnum was of the same size as a Horse, 
and Paleotherium Medium of the same size as a Pig. 

In the Eocene strata of the Utah Territory of North 
America is found the EKohippus. This extinct animal is the 
earliest ancestral form of the Horse. It was of about the 
same size as a Fox, and its feet have three toes behind and 
three in front. 

In the early Miocene and late Eocene the Anchitherium 
appears. It was of the size of a sheep. 

In the early Pleiocene and late Miocene the Hipparion, 
Protohippus and Pleiohippus appear. These extinct forms 
- were about the size of an Ass. 

The Hipparion was a small graceful animal, having three 
well developed toes, each bearing a hoof. ‘The middle toe 
was strong and large, while the lateral toes were so smail 
as not to reach beyond the fetlock. 

It is noteworthy that cases are recorded where Horses 
have been born with a tridactyle foot in every respect 
similar te that of Hipparion. 

jee 


= 


4 - MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The Equide comprise several living species. ‘They are 
divided into the true Horses, which have horny patches or 
callosities on the inner side of both pairs of limbs, 
above the wrist on the fore, and on the inner side of the 
metatarsus on the hind limbs; and the Asses, which possess 
such callosities on the fore limbs only. With the Asses 
are classed the Zebras and Quaggas. The true Horses 
are represented by one weil-established species, Equus 
Caballus, from which all other races or varieties are de- 
scended, through the gradual processes of natural and 
artificial selection. 

These races vary as much as any two closely allied species 
of wild animals. | 

According to Mr. Darwin, no aboriginal or truly wild 
Horse is positively known to exist, for the wild Horse 
of the East may probably be descended from those which 
have escaped from domestication. Probably the wild 
animals have been exterminated by the hand of man 
in those countries which they formerly inhabited, and in 
which they have left their remains to attest their former . 
presence. 

The wild horses of Tartary present us with the nearest 
examples of the stock from which the domestic horse is 
probably descended. These wild animals have a stripe 
along the back, and are of a greyish drab colour. 

The first horses known in Europe were introduced in the 
period known as the Neolithic Age. They were in all pro- 
bability used for food in this age, and not employed for 
driving or riding. 

In the succeeding or Bronze Age they were probably in- | 
troduced from the Steppes of Central Asia, and were used 
for riding and driving, as is evidenced by the discovery of 
bronze bits. 

In the Scriptural records the Horse is first mentioned 


INTRODUCTORY. 5 


during the Egyptian famine, and it was probably very simi- 
— lar to the Arabian Horse of the present day. 

From the earliest ages known to historians, horses were 
used for war in chariots. To the early Greeks the art of 
riding was unknown down to the year B.c. 500. At the 
time of the Grecian supremacy, however, horses were used 
for the chariots, and about the year 450 B.c. we read of 
riding and cavalry in Greece Proper. 

If we turn to Roman history, we learn that in the early 
Regal times, and in the first centuries of the Republic, 
cavalry was the most important weapon of the military 
armament. : 

The ancient Britons used horses for their chariots in their 
wars against the Romans, and representations of horses 
occur on some of the early British coins. 

Athelstan made an enactment to prevent the exportation 
of horses, and imported running horses from Germany, and 
also horses from Spain, in order to improve the native 
breed. 

King John paid much attention to breeding horses for 
agricultural purposes, and, according to Youatt, we are in- 
debted to this monarch for our Draft Horses. 

Edward III. improved the breed by mixture with lighter 
horses of Spanish breed. From this time, owing to the 
_ great care taken in breeding, races were regularly esta- 
blished in various parts, and enactments were made by 
various sovereigns from time to time, in order to secure 
excellence. 

In the Protectorate of Cromwell, horses were introduced 
from Morocco and the South East; and by this means 
elegance of form and swiftness were added to the stoutness 
which had hitherto characterized the English horse. 

The original colour of the horse was a dun-brown. 

Thus artificial selection by man, in addition to the action 


6 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of natural selection, has been of very great importance in 


the establishment of the various breeds of horses. 

It is indeed remarkable how the forms of horses have 
been modified by the various conditions of life. As an 
example, it is well-known how horses living in mountainous 
districts, or small islands, become reduced in size from 
deficient supply and want of variety of food. 


SmAaArTER I. 


ON THE CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND CLASSIFICATION OF 
DISEASE. 


ETIOLOGY. 


By etiology (dirs, cause, and Aoyos, law) we mean the 
‘science of the causation of disease. 

Etiology is of great importance, it aids our diagnosis, 
our prognosis, our treatment, and our prophylactic measures. 
The causes of disease may be divided into intrinsic and 
extrinsic causes. 

INTRINSIC CAUSES of disease are : 

1. Heredity.—Offspring may inherit from their parents 
an actual disease, or they may, as far oftener occurs, inherit 
a special tendency to various forms of disease. 

2. Age.—Certain diseases are especially characteristic of 
old age, while others are more liable to attack young 
animals. 

o. Sex.—Besides the diseases arising from the peculiarities 
of the generative organs of the two sexes, it has been 
observed that sex is of influence in predisposing to certain 
forms of disease. We may give, as an instance, roaring, 
which is more common in horses and geldings than in 
mares. 

4. Variety.—Some breeds of animals are more liable to 
certain diseases than others. As an example, it has been 


8 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


- found that navicular disease is rare in cart-horses, though 
it is a common affection among the more highly bred 
animals, Again, roaring is very often associated with 
certain shapes of neck. 

5. Colour.—Melanoid sarcoma is frequent in grey or 
white horses. 

6. Temperament predisposes to certain diseases. The 
sanguine temperament is especially shown in the highly 
bred horses, whereas in lower bred animals the lymphatic 
temperament is predominant. The sanguine temperament 
predisposes to diseases of an inflammatory type. 

7. Diathesis.—By this term we mean a special liability 
to certain diseases ; for example, a rheumatic or tubercular 
susceptibility. 

8. Effects of Previous Disease.—Some diseases when 
once acquired tend to recur; others, again, are protective 
against themselves. 

EXTRINSIC CAUSES of disease are : 

1. Dietetic.—Yood and water are frequently sources of 
disease, when excessive or deficient in amount, or when the 
quality is unsuitable. 

2. Atmospheric or Telluric Influences.—These are of 
much importance in the production of disease, as are also 
the locality and geological formation. 

3. Imperfect Sanitation.—Defective drainage and im- 
perfect ventilation are fertile sources of disease; ideed, 
there is no more potent cause of disease among horses than in- 
sufficient or vitiated supply of air. 

4, Work.—When too severe, work is a cause of disease, 
as also it is when insufficient. 

5. Temperature.—Heat and cold are of much influence 
in the causation of disease. 

6. Mechanical Causes.—Injuries of various kinds. 

7. Poisons.—Mineral poisons, as arsenic, antimony, and 


CAUSES, SYMPTOMS, AND CLASSIFICATION OF DISEASE. 9 


jead ; and vegetable poisons, as the yew tree, hellebore, 
and the rhododendron. 

8. Parasites—Animal and Vegetable.—Animal parasites 
will be considered in detail in a later chapter. 

Vegetable parasites are most potent sources of disease. 
When treating of Bacteria we shall see that these vegetable 
fungi have been demonstrated in the blood and tissues of 
animals suffering from many diseases. As an example, 
anthrax or charbon will for the present suffice. 

In addition, parasitic fungi are frequently developed on 
the external parts of the body, producing definite disorders, 
but not invading the system at large. 

The so-called 'Tinez are examples of such diseases. They 
are produced by the growth of parasitic fungi, such as the 
Trichophyton tonsurans and Achorion Schénleinil. 


SEMEIOLOGY. 


By semeiology (onpewor, sign, and doyoc, law) we mean the 
science of the signs or symptoms manifested by the diseased 
animal, 

Symptoms are local or general, according as they are 
restricted to a special part or affect the system as a 
whole. 

They are called primary when they arise directly as a 
result of the disease ; sympathetic or secondary when 
arising from those caused by the primary disease or from a 
secondary disorder. 

They are called premonitory when they precede the full 
development of the disease. And symptoms are still 
further divided into diagnostic, prognostic, and therapeutic, 
according as they are respectively applicable to the distinc- 
tion, the determination of the result, and the suggestion of 
the treatment, of the disease. 


10 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


NOSOLOGY. 


By nosology (vococ, disease, and doyoc, law) we understand 
the definition, the naming, and the classification of the 
diseases. 

It is at present impossible to frame a perfectly natural 
classification of the diseases of man and animals, as our 
knowledge is inadequate for the purpose; but with the 
advance of medical science our system of classification will 
doubtless become gradually more and more perfect. 


CHAPTER II. 
GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 


CONGESTION, OR HYPERAEMIA. 


CONGESTION, or hyperemia, is excess of blood in the 
dilated vessels of any part. It is active or arterial, and me- 
chanical or venous. 

Active Hypereemia is excess of blood in the arteries of 
any part, generally accompanied by acceleration of the blood- 
flow. It is caused by diminished arterial resistance, which 
may be due to several causes, viz. : 

1. Weakening or paralysing of the coats of the vessels. 

2. Inhibition of the tonic action of the sympathetic on 
the walls of the vessels, which may occur either directly or 
reflexly. 

As an example of the direct process may be given the 
congestion occurring after section of the vaso-motor nerves, 
in any part of their course from their origin in medulla 
oblongata, to the spinal or sympathetic plexuses. 

Some drugs also, as nitrite of amyl, tobacco, and alcohol, 
probably directly paralyse the vaso-tonic nerves. 

The reflex process is due to stimulation of afferent nerves. 
It is seen when food excites the flow of saliva or gastric juice. 

3. Excitation of the vaso-dilator nerves, as, for example, 
the chorda tympani. 

Mechanical, or Venous Hypereemia.—In venous hyper- 
eemia the blood-flow is retarded, and the excess of blood is in 
the veins and capillaries. 


12 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Venous hyperemia may be caused by— 

1. Diminution of the force with which the blood should 
be driven through the veins. 

2. Direct impediment to the return of blood by the veins. 

We may consider these causes separately. 

(1.) Diminution of the force of the circulation may be due 
to lessened cardiac power ; for example, in the acute febrile 
disorders and in those degenerations of the cardiac structures 
which lead to dilation of its cavities. 

In the arteries also the blood-current may be obstructed 
from morbid changes in their walls. 

The current may also be obstructed in the capillaries, 
chiefly from the pressure of inflammatory effusions, dropsy, 
and other causes. . 

Finally, the flow may be impeded in the veins, owing 
to absence of muscular contraction of the walls, or to 
dilation of the vessels. 

(2.) Direct impediment to the return of blood by the veins 
may be due to various causes. 

As examples may be given the obstruction to the portal 
circulation which occurs in cirrhosis of the liver; the con- 
gestion of the lungs which occurs in mitral constriction and 
regurgitation; and that of the lower extremities which occurs 
from the pressure of the gravid uterus on the iliac veins. 

The Results of Venous Congestion.—Venous congestion 
results in accumulation of blood, and diminished velocity of 
its flow in the dilated capillaries and veins. The most im- 
portant changes which may follow are: transudation of 
serum, diapedesis of red blood-cells, hemorrhage, fibroid 
induration, and frequently thrombosis. Gangrene, 1.¢., death 
of the part, may result when the obstruction is very general 
and complete. 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. La 


INFLAMMATION 


May be defined as ‘the succession of changes which takes 
place in a living tissue as the result of some kind of injury, 
provided that the injury be insufficient immediately to destroy 
its vitality ’ (Sanderson). 

The phenomena of inflammation in vascular structures 
comprise-— | 

1. Changes in the blood-vessels and circulation. 

2. Exudation of fluid and blood-cells from the vessels. 

3. Changes in the tissues affected. 

(1.) Changes in the Blood-vessels and Circulation.—The 
first effect of inflammation is dilatation of the arteries. This 
dilatation steadily increases for about twelve hours, affecting 
chiefly the arteries, but also the veins. The capillaries are 
but slightly affected. The blood-flow becomes accelerated at 
first, and then in about an hour it becomes considerably re- 
_tarded, though the vessels still remain dilated. Pulsation 
in the small arteries becomes manifest, and slowness of the 
stream allows of the distinction of individual corpuscles in 
the capillaries and smallest veins. 

The acceleration of the blood-flow is not a constant occur- 
rence, and often subsides without the appearance of the other 
phenomena of inflammation. ‘The dilation, with diminished 
velocity, however, 7s constant, and is the essential vascular 
change ininflammation. As the blood-flow becomes retarded, 
white blood-cells gradually accumulate in the smaller veins, 
adhering to their walls, and some also stick in the capillaries, 

Thus the lumina of the veins become narrowed by layers 
of white cells, among which there are no red ones; the cir- 
culation becomes slower and slower, and the red blood-cells, 
with some white ones, accumulate in the capillaries. 

Eventually the blood-stream in the capillaries ceases, 


14 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


and the accumulated mass of cells moves to and fro with the 
pulse. This is the stage of oscillation, and it is followed by 
that of stasis, in which no movement of any kind takes place. 

Finally, thrombosis may occur, when the capillary walls 
have lost all vitality. 

(2.) Escape of Fluid and of Blood-cells from the Vessels. 
—Some of the leucocytes adhering to the sides of the vessels 
gradually sink into the walls of the small veins, and (to a 
less extent) of the capillaries, and pass through them. Red 
blood-cells also pass through, but to a far less extent. In 
severe inflammation, however, where the stagnation in the 
capillaries is extensive, red cells may pass through almost 
alone, and in large numbers, thus giving the exudation an 
hemorrhagic character. ‘The red cells pass out chiefly from 
the capillaries; the intensity of the inflammation and the 
vascularity of the tissues determining the proportion of them 
in the exudation. 

The red and white cells at first remain near the vessels 
from which they have escaped, but are soon washed away by 
the exuding fluid, and the white cells move, in addition, by 
their own peculiar power of locomotion. 

It is almost certain that all new cells formed in inflamed 
tissues, as a direct result of the injury which caused the pro- 
cess, are escaped blood-cells. 

In the less acute forms of inflammation, cells are also 
formed by regenerative processes going on in the cells of the 
tissues ; but these are not of inflammatory origin. The com- 
position of inflammatory exudation is not constant. In the 
most acute inflammations it contains very many red cells; but 
in the less severe forms, white cells are in excess of the red. 

The more severe the process, the more does the exudation 
resemble plasma in composition and character ; while in the 
less severe forms it becomes more like the fluid exuded in 
mechanical hyperzemia. 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 15 


(3.) Changes in the Inflamed Tissues.—Inflammation leads 
to depression of vitality, degeneration and death of the tissues 
involved. No increased vitality and no multiplication of 
tissue elements, form part in the process. 

The essential lesion of inflammation is some change in 
the vessel-walls themselves. That these are affected is shown 
by the facts that all the early phenomena of inflammation 
are vascular, that injury of the vessels alone causes inflam- 
mation, and that injury of the tissues alone (Senftleben) 
does not cause them. 

Furthermore, Ryneck has shown that stasis may be pro- 
duced in the vessels of the web of the foot of the frog, in 
which milk or defibrinated blood is circulating in place of 
normal blood ; and that no such stasis can be produced in 
vessels whose vitality has been destroyed by the injection of 
metallic poisons. 

In all spontaneous inflammations the cause is first probably 
carried to the part by the blood, and acts firstly upon the 
vessels, and afterwards upon the tissues. There is no de- 
tectable structural alteration of the vessels, and so Cohn- 
heim speaks of the change as molecular, and regards it as 
possibly chemical in nature. 

Clinical Signs of Inflammation, and their Causes.—The 
clinical signs of inflammation are redness, heat, swelling, pain, 
and impaired function. 

Redness and heat depend upon the amount of blood pass- 

ing through the part in a given time. Heat is not produced 
im excess in the inflamed tissues. 
_ Swelling arises from exudation of fluid and cells. It 
may be entirely due to fiuid, as in hydrocele, or to 
cells mainly, as in orchitis, where the fluid has been ab- 
sorbed. | 

Pain is due to pressure of the effusion on the nerve-end- 
ings, and perhaps also to chemical irritation of them. The 


16 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


more sensitive and rigid the tissue, and the more rapid the 
effusion, the greater is the pain. 

Impaired function is due to the injury of the tissues in- 
volved. 


VARIETIES OF INFLAMMATION. 


The several varieties of inflammation are to be regarded 
simply as steps in the process, due to differences in 

1. The resisting power of the tissue ; 

2. The intensity of the cause ; and, 

3. Lhe duration of its action. 

Serous Inflammation.—The best examples are chronic effu- 
sions into serous cavities, as the pleura, tunica vaginalis, orthe 
joints. In impoverished states of the blood, especially when 
the albumen is diminished, inflammatory exudations are 
liable to be serous, even though the process be of considerable 
intensity. In serous inflammation the exudation contains 
excess of albumen, and but few white cells; hence it does 
not coagulate, though a few flakes of fibrine may be formed. 

If the process be more severe, the exudation contains more 
albumen, fibrinogen, and white cells; and hence fibrine forms 
in increasing quantity. 

Networks of fibrine are of frequent occurrence in the 
meshes of inflammatory connective-tissue. These inflam- 
mations are termed sero-fibrinous. 

Fibrinous Inflammation.—In this variety the exudation is 
still more richly albuminous, and contains more leucocytes. 
It has a much greater tendency to coagulate, and ‘lymph’ 
forms on the inflamed surface, or in the substance of the 
inflamed tissue. 

The best examples of this kind of inflammation are those 
of serous membranes, the pleura for example. Here fibrine 
containing leucocytes is exuded, and is termed ‘lymph.’ 

‘Lymph’ may form on both the visceral and parietal 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. LT 


pleura, and the two opposed patches of inflammation 
may blend. This is the first stage in the formation of 
adhesions, i.¢., bands of connective-tissue between the two 
surfaces. 

Lymph, similarly formed and composed of fibrine and 
leucocytes, is the temporary uniting medium in healing by 
the first intention. 

This form of inflammation may end in absorption. 

Productive Inflammation.—Often the inflammatory pro- 
cess ends in the formation of new tissue, and is then termed 
‘productive.’ In these cases the fibrine disappears from the 
exudation, and white cells crowd into it, converting it into a 
tissue of closely packed white cells, in a scanty homogeneous 
matrix, which is supplied by vascular loops springing from 
the capillaries of the inflamed tissue, penetrating it in all 
directions. This tissue is called granulation-tissue. The 
granulations, when plentifully supplied with newly formed 
vessels, gradually become converted into connective-tissue, 
or scar-tissue. 

This tissue is at first very vascular. Gradually the new 
tissue contracts, many of the vessels disappearing in conse- 
quence, and eventually the scar-tissue becomes less vascular 
than the surrounding parts. 

Granulation-tissue may, however, ‘break down into pus,’ 
instead of forming scar-tissue. This is due to the insufficient 
development of vessels, diminution in their lumina, con- 
tinuance of excessive irritation, and to the too dense packing 
of cells. 

The term interstitial is applied to inflammations of solid 
organs where the connective-tissue is chiefly involved. 

The term parenchymatous is applied to inflammations 
where the epithelial cells of the organs show the most marked 
changes. 


Suppurative Inflammation.—Is a very common form. 
) 


aol 


18 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In this variety the exudation contains the same elements as 
does the fibrinous exudation. 

No coagulation occurs in this kind, no ‘lymph’ forms 
and vascularizes. Any ‘lymph’ which may be formed at 
an early stage is destroyed. 

The irritation is more intense than that required to 
produce a fibrinous exudation, and its action is more 
prolonged. 

Suppuration may occur in the tissues in a circumscribed 
form or abscess or in a diffuse manner, or its seat may be a 
free surface, as a mucous membrane or the skin. In the 
latter cases, when the epithelium is destroyed, with more or 
less of the subjacent tissue, the process is termed Ulceration, 
but when the deeper layers of epithelium remain it is termed 
a purulent catarrh. 

Formation of an Acute -Abscess.—Fluid and corpuscles 
escape into the irritated tissue. ‘The cells accumulate espe- 
cially round the small veins, which thus form commencing 
foci of infiltration. The infiltrations become denser and 
denser, and spread by migration and transportation of cells 
until the foci blend. In consequence of the extent of 
injury and succeeding nutritive disturbance, the tissue ele- 
ments die and disappear before the leucocytes. 

In the central parts of the diseased area no vessels are to 
be seen, and no new ones are formed. | 
From mutual pressure and absence of nutrition, the 
central cells die and degenerate together with the inter- 
cellular substance. Thus a cavity containing dead leuco- 
cytes (pus-cells) is formed, and it is bordered by still living 

infiltrated tissue. 

The process gradually spreads by thrombosis of the 
vessels and consequent disintegration of the cells they 
supply. An acute abscess almost always extends until it 
bursts or is opened. 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 19 


If the cavity be kept at rest and drained, the inflam- 
matory cell-infiltration vascularizes, and the walls thus 
become lined by granular tissue. 

This grows and stretches across the cavity, and then de- 
velops into scar-tissue. In this manner the abscess is healed. 

Diffuse Suppuration is a similar process going on in a 
wider area. 

Suppuration is characterized by the formation of pus, 
which from an otherwise healthy animal is thick, creamy, 
opaque, yellowish-white, and slightly viscid, and has a 
faint odour and alkaline reaction. The specific gravity 
varies from 1030—1033. 

It contains about 10—15 per cent. of solid material, of 
which two-thirds are albumen, the rest being fatty matter 
and salts, such as are found in the blood. On standing, it 
separates into a clear supernatant fluid, called ‘ liquor puris,’ 
and a dense yellow layer of pus-cells. 

Pus-cells are spheroidal, semi-transparent, more or less 
granular motionless cells, usually containing a bi- or a tri- 
partite nucleus. They are about 53,5 of an inch in 

‘diameter. 
_ The more recently escaped cells perform amceboid move- 
ments, and have the appearance of leucocytes. 

Ulceration.—Is due to the same molecular destruction of 
the tissue on a free surface as was described above. Com- 
monly, shreds of disintegrated tissue adhere to the floor of 
a spreading ulcer. In more intense inflammation the shreds 
may become much larger, and are thus transformed into 
sloughs, 

Ulceration passes insensibly into gangrene, when death 
becomes too rapid to permit of molecular disintegration of 
the tissues involved. 

When the inflammation ceases, the round-celled infiltra- 
tion on the floor becomes vascularized into granular tissue. 

2—2, 


20 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


These granulations are bright-red rounded elevations, about 
the size of pins’ heads, and consist of a group of cells round 
a capillary loop. They have no lymphatics or nerves, are 
not tender, and do not bleed readily. 

Hemorrhagic Inflammation.—This form is characterized 
by an exudation in which red blood-cells are in great 
excess, The greater the vascularity of the tissue, and the 
more severe the injury, the more likely is an exudation 
to be hemorrhagic. In acute pneumonia, the exudation 
generally contains many red cells. This form of inflam- 
mation too often terminates in gangrene. 


TERMINATION OF INFLAMMATION. 


Inflammation may terminate in resolution, in necrosis, 
or in new growth. 

1. Resolution.—This is the commonest and most favour- 
able termination of inflammation, It consists in the cessation 
of the process, and the restoration of the parts to the normal 
condition. | 

The corpuscles of the stagnant blood gradually move 
away until the current is re-established in the inflamed 
area, Migration of cells and exudation of fluid ceases, and 
the circulation becomes normal. The exuded fluid and cells 
are removed firstly by the lymphatics, and afterwards by 
the veins also. The remaining blood-cells or fibrin undergo 
fatty degeneration and are removed. 

2. Necrosis.—Inflammation may terminate in death of 
the implicated part. The more severe the injury, and the 
feebler the resistance of the tissues, the more likely is 
necrosis to occur. We apply the term ‘necrosis’ not to 
the molecular disturbance occurring in suppuration and 
ulceration, but to obvious death of tissue, and generally 
en masse. Some affections, ¢.g., malignant pustule, always 


terminate in necrosis or gangrene. iN inflammations are! | 
termed gangrenous or necrotic. ) 
Diphtheritic is a special variety of oe, ear atieg. q, 
It affects the surfaces of mucous membranes and Wounds," 
In this form the mucous membrane is sovenad by a 
false membrane, composed of a network of fibrin, con- 
taining here and there leucocytes in the meshes. 
The epithelium is quite destroyed, with more or less of 
the subjacent tissue. This form of inflammation charac- 
terizes the disease called ‘ diphtheria,’ but a similar patho- 
logical change may occur on any mucous membrane, 2.4., 
that of the intestine (dysentery). 
&. New Growths.—Inflammations ending in new growths 
are the so-called productive inflammations already con- 
sidered. 


ETIOLOGY OF INFLAMMATION. 


Etiologically, inflammations are divided into simple or 
traumatic, and cryptogenetic. 

1. Simple or Traumatic Inflammations.—Are due to 
some injurious agency, such as mechanical violence, action 
of chemicals, excess of heat or cold, or to prolonged local 
anemia. Inflammation from these causes has no tendency to 
spread beyond the part originally injured, or to pass on to 
more advanced stages, after the causes have ceased to act. 
Under this heading come inflammations due to wet or 
cold, ‘rheumatic’ and ‘ reflex’ influences. 

Excessive functional activity is said by some to be a 
direct cause of inflammation. 

Nervous influence is also regarded as a direct cause. 

2. Cryptogenetic Inflammations.—In very many of the 
inflammations there has been no obvious chemical or 
mechanical injury. Many of these have been shown to be 
due to the action of various vegetable fungi, and evidence 


ip MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


has been given to show that the others are probably due to 
the same cause. ‘These inflammations are termed crypto- 
genetic. The fungi may act as chemical or mechanical 
irritants, thus acting in the same way as the causes of 
simple inflammation. When the products of the life- 
action of these low vegetable organisms are irritant, inflam- 
mation results; the intensity of the process varying with 
the quantity and intensity of the irritant. If the irritation 
is intense, suppuration results ; if it is less severe, the early 
stages of productive inflammation occur, as is supposed to 
be the case in farcy and tubercle. The characteristic lesion 
of these and some other diseases is an inflammatory nodulate, 
raised round a spot at which the fungi have probably lodged, 
and whence they may spread and infect other parts. ‘These 
lesions are spoken of as the ‘Infective Granulomata,’ the 
name signifying infective tumour-like formations of granula- 
tion-tissue (Ziegler). 

Some fungi cannot live in healthy tissues; these are 
called ‘non-pathogenic.’ Of the others, which are called 
‘pathogenic,’ some spread only by continuity of the tissues; 
others find a suitable nidus in lymph; whilst others enter the 
blood-stream, and are carried by it through the body (e.., 
Bacillus Anthracis). It is in this way that metastatic inflam- 
mations are to be explained ; for example, the secondary 
abscesses of pyzemia, which constantly contain microbes, 
and the albuminuria, which so often complicates certain 
specific diseases. 

The cryptogenetic inflammations are divided into the 
septic and the infective : | 

1. Septic.—Of non-pathogenic organisms, those which 
cause ordinary putrefaction are of much importance in in- 
flammation. 

The term Septic should be restricted to inflammations of 
this kind. 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 23 


Often the discharges or sloughs from a simple wound, 
which has not healed by first intention and is not treated 
antiseptically, become putrid, and Bacterium Termo, and 
other organisms, especially micrococci, are found in them. 

The products of the life of these fungi are the cause of the 
inflammation, and these organisms may continue to grow 
and excite fresh decomposition. If, however, the discharges 
are drawn off as fast as they are formed, the non-pathogenic 
organisms lose their pabulum and putrefaction ceases. Prac- 
tically, if a wound be guarded from putrefaction, it is pro- 
tected from infective organisms. 

2. Infective.—Pathogenic organisms cause inflammation 
by penetrating into living tissues and causing irritant de- 
composition of the fluids. They are called infective because 
their poison multiplies in the tissues and spreads to near 
parts (locally infective), or distant parts (generally infective), 
in which they set up similar processes. Simple and septic 
inflammations are non-infective. The special peculiarities 
in the poisons cause special peculiarities in the inflamma- 
tions, which are called ‘specific’ because they arise from 
specific causes. 


THROMBOSIS. 


By thrombosis we mean any coagulation of the blood in 
the heart, or vessels, occurring during life. The coagulum 
itself is called a thrombus, in opposition to a clot, the result 
of post-mortem coagulation. Thrombosis most commonly 
occurs in the veins. A thrombus may be distinguished from 
a clot formed after death by its laminated structure ; its 
ereater amount of fibrin, which makes it more firm and light 
than post-mortem coagula ; its granular appearance on break- 
ing ; the greater relative proportion of white blood cells in 
it ; and by its firmer adhesion to the part with which it is 
in contact. In all cases where coagulation has been very 


24 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


rapid, the thrombus first appears on the lining membrane of 
the vessels, and slowly grows from without inwards by 
deposit of fresh fibrin, and thus finally blocks up the 
lumina of the vessels entirely. 

It now extends in a direction towards the heart until it 
meets a current of blood strong enough to arrest its further 
progress, 

CAUSES OF THROMBOSIS.—For the coagulation of 
blood three factors are necessary, viz., fibrinogen, fibrino- 
plastin, and the fibrin ferment. Fibrinogen exists as 
such in the liquor sanguinis. The ferment and most of 
the fibrinoplastin are contained in the white cells, the 
destruction of some of which is therefore necessary for 
coagulation. The causes of thrombosis are: 

1. Retarded Blood flow. 

2. Modification of the Vascular Walls; which consists 
in abnormality, or removal of the endothelium. 

The causes which produce such modifications are: 

A. Injuries: mechanical, chemical, or physical. 

B. Foreign Bodies: the presence in the vascular system 
of substances not covered by endothelium, ¢.¢., needles, para- 
sites, and new growths which have penetrated into the veins. 

C. Such changes in the Blood, or in the supply of blood 
to a part, as cause disease of the vessel-walls, by imperfect 
or improper nutrition. 

D. Certain Conditions of the Blood. The tendency to 
coagulation of the blood is said to be in some measure in- 
creased in the later months of pregnancy and after profuse 
hemorrhages. The increased tendency of the blood to 
coagulate is probably never more than a predisposing cause 
of thrombosis. 

CHANGES IN THROMBI.—These are decolorization 
(when red), resolution, organization, calcification, softening 
(simple and infective), and putrefaction. 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 25 


Organization is commonest in arteries, while softening is 
chiefly met with in the veins. 

RESULTS OF THROMBOSIS.—The coats of the vessels 
are altered, and unless collateral circulation be established, 
thrombosis of an artery will lead to death of the parts sup- 
plied. ‘Thrombosis of an important vein will cause painful 
swelling ; if continued long, nutritive changes in the parts 
it drains, and mechanical hyperzemia, will follow. 

A fragment of the thrombus may be washed away by 
the blood current, thus leading to embolism. 


EMBOLISM. 


Embolism is the impaction of solid substances circu- 
lating in the blood-vessels which are too small to allow them 
to pass. ‘These solid substances, which vary much in their 
nature, are termed emboli. The most frequent causes of 
embolism are detached fragments of thrombi in the veins, 
vegetations, and morbid débris from the heart, portions of 
new growths and parasites. 

An embolus which arises in the systemic veins will pro- 
bably be arrested in one of the small branches of the pul- 
monary artery ; while those arising from the pulmonary 
veins, or heart, will be lodged in the systemic arteries, and 
those from the radicles of the portal vein in the liver. 

Thus the seat of embolism is either in the arteries or in 
the hepatic branches of the portal vein. 

The arrest of the embolus, and the consequent obstruction, 
are followed by the formation of secondary thrombi behind 
and in front of it. The secondary thrombi extend as far 
as the entrance of the first large collateral vessels. 

Emboli may in rare cases be absorbed. When derived 
from thrombi they may organize or soften. 

RESULTS OF EMBOLISM.—An embolus cuts off the 
supply of blood from the area to which the vessel is dis- 


26 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


—__—__—__—_—— 


tributed, and deprives the part of its function, for the time, 
at any rate. 

When the embolus is small, the collateral circulation is 
soon established, and the part may soon regain its normal 
condition. In other cases collateral congestion occurs, and 
a backward current takes place in the veins, leading to 
hemorrhage. 

The thrombosed tissue, infiltrated with extravasated blood, 
is called an hemorrhagic infarct. 

If the infarct be infective, rapid softening and disintegra- 
tion takes place and an embolic or metastatic abscess 1s 
formed. 

If the infarct be non-infective and small, absorption or 
organization takes place. If the infarct be non-infective 
and large, it often softens and then becomes encapsuled, and 
finally dries up, leaving a fibroid cicatrix. 

CAPILLARY EMBOLI.—These consist of fat, masses of 
organisms, white blood-cells in small masses, pigment- 
granules, or air. 

In fractures, contusions of subcutaneous tissue, acute 
osteo-myelitis, and other marked conditions in which fat- 
cells are broken up and the fat set free, the particles are 
absorbed and carried away by the lymphatics and veins. 

These emboli reach the right side of the heart, whence 
they are carried to the pulmonary arterioles and capillaries. 
These little plugs may be gradually swept on to the left 
side of the heart, and are thence distributed by the cir- 
culation to other organs, where they may collect in large 
numbers. 


HAEMORRHAGE. 
Hemorrhage signifies an escape of blood from the general 
current of the circulation. 
It may arise from rupture of vessels due to injury or to 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 27 


disease of the walls, or to overfulness or increased tension, 
as in congestion. 

Hemorrhage may also be due to alterations in the quality 
of the blood, as in purpura hemorrhagica. 

The term epistaxis is applied to bleeding from the nose ; 
melzna, to bleeding from the bowels; hzmatemesis, to 
bleeding from the stomach ; hematuria, to bleeding from 
the urinary passages; menorrhagia, to bleeding from the 
uterus. 


DROPSY. 


Dropsy is due to accumulation of serous fluid in the 
serous cavities, and in the interstices of the tissues of the 
body. More or less generally diffused dropsy of the integu- 


‘ment is called anasarca. When localized, dropsy is called 


oedema. Ascites denotes dropsy of the peritoneal cavity ; 
hydrothorax, of the pleural cavity ; hydro-pericardium, of 
the pericardial cavity ; hydrocephalus, of the ventricles of 
the cerebrum. Dropsical effusion is a colourless or straw- | 
coloured, alkaline or neutral, clear or turbid watery fluid, 
having a specific gravity of 1010 to 1015. It holds albumen, 
salts, and extractives in solution. One of the chief patho- 
logical causes of dropsy is increased blood-pressure, which 
accompanies the several forms of congestion, especially that 
due to mechanical interference with the return of blood by 
the veins. 

The pressure of the blood may also be increased inde- 
pendently of congestion, by obstruction to its flow through 
the capillaries, traceable to alteration of the relationship 
which exists between the blood in the capillaries and 
tissues around. Such a condition often accompanies chronic 
renal disease. 

Dropsy may be local or general. 

Local dropsy is frequently due to mechanical obstruction 


a8 / MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of the veins, as in ascites from cirrhosis of the liver. It 


also occurs as the result of inflammation, and more rarely 
of lymphatic obstructions. 

General dropsy is active or passive. 

Active general dropsy is abrupt in its onset, and may 
result from a chill or other causes. It is widely distributed, 
and is frequently associated with febrile symptoms. 

Passive general dropsy may be due to heart or renal 
disease, or anemia. 


HYPERTROPHY. 


By hypertrophy we mean a quantitative overgrowth of 


an organ or tissue. ‘The increase is either due to an in- 


crease in size of the individual tissue elements, or to an 
increase of their number. In the former case the hyper- 
trophy is termed simple ; in the latter it is termed numerical 
hypertrophy. 

Hypertrophy is accompanied by increase in size and 
weight, and sometimes also by change of shape of the 
organ. Hypertrophy is regarded as the anatomical ex- 
pression of increased function. In muscle, for example, 
where it is most commonly met with, the increase of work 
performed is followed by increase in size i those upon 
which the strain is thrown. 

Since it helps to maintain the balance between the work 
to be done and the agent performing it, this hypertrophy is 
termed ‘compensatory.’ 


ATROPHY. 


Atrophy is a diminution of the substance of an organ 
or tissue; it is thus the reverse of hypertrophy. 

Atrophy is either simple or numerical, according as it is 
characterized by diminution of the actual size of the tissue 
elements, or by a diminution of their number. 


\ 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 29 


These two varieties are generally combined. 

Atrophy is accompanied by impaired function, which is 
frequently still further impaired by its association with de- 
generation of the tissue. 

Atrophy is local or general. 

Local atrophy may be due to— 

1. Imperfect blood supply. 

2. Impaired nutritive activity. 

3. TIixcessive functional activity, leading to exhaustion. 

4, Inflammation. 

5. Nervous disturbance. : 

General atrophy is usually simple, affecting firstly the 
adipose tissue, then the muscles and viscera, and lastly the 
tissues of the nervous system. 

It may be due to— 

1. Deficient supply of nutriment. 

2. Excessive waste ; as in exhausting diseases. 

3. Impairment of nutritive activity. 


DEGENERATIONS, 


Degeneration, unlike atrophy, is characterized by quali- 
tative rather than by quantitative changes in the tissues 
and organs. 

Two kinds of degeneration are distinguished. 

In the one the albuminoid constituents are directly meta- 
morphosed into some new material of lower type; whereas 
in the other the new material is deposited in the tissues from 
the blood. 

The first kind is termed Metamorphosis; the second is 
termed Infiltration. 

In both there is impaired function of the parts involved ; 
but this is much more marked in the metamorphoses. 


30 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


THE METAMORPHOSES.-—There are three varieties ; 
viz., fatty, mucoid, and colloid degeneration. 

Fatty Degeneration.—This variety of degeneration is 
characterized by the direct conversion of the albuminoid 
substance, of cells or fibres, into fat. The cells or fibres 
enlarge at first and then break up, and the fat is thus dis- 
tributed in the tissues. Caseation is a modified form of 
fatty degeneration. 

The common causes of fatty degeneration are senile 
decay, deficient blood-supply, diminished vitality, congestion 
and inflammation. 

Mucoid Degeneration.—In this form the albuminous 
intercellular substance, and far more rarely the cells, 
become liquefied and converted into a substance called 
mucin. Mucin is precipitated by acetic acid, and contains 
no sulphur, thus differing from albumen. 

Colloid Degeneration.—In this form the albuminous con- 
tents of the cells (and not the intercellular matter) are con- 
verted into a jelly-like material called colloid, which differs 
from mucin in containing sulphur, and in not being precipi- 
tated by acetic acid. 

THE INFILTRATIONS.—There are four varieties of 
infiltration ; viz., fatty, lardaceous, calcareous, and pig- 
mentary infiltration. 

Fatty Infiltration.—In this form fat is deposited within 
the cells as distinct globules, which increase in size and tend 
to coalesce. | 

The protoplasmic cell contents are at first merely pushed 
aside; but they subsequently atrophy. As an example of 
fatty infiltration may be mentioned the conversion of 
connective into adipose tissue. It is due to the presence of 
fat in blood, in greater quantity than can be consumed by 
the economy. 


This in turn may be due on the one hand to excess of 


det ee en oie o 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. oF 


food, combined with insufficient exercise and fresh air; or 
on the other, to increased absorption of fat from rapid 
wasting of fatty tissues elsewhere. 

Albuminoid, or Lardaceous, or Amyloid Degeneration. — 
In this form the material which infiltrates the tissues and 
elements is a peculiar homogeneous, translucent substance 
called lardacein. It impairs the vitality and functions of 
the tissues, and alters their appearance. 

Lardacein is essentially a modification of albumen, with 
a deficiency of potash and phosphoric acid, but with an 
excess of soda and hydrochloric acid. When treated with 
a weak solution of iodine, lardacein exhibits a characteristic 
brown mahogany colour; but some other forms of altered 
albumen also exhibit a similar colour when similarly 
tested. 

Methylaniline violet stains lardaceous substance violet 
red, the healthy tissue being coloured indigo blue. 

Lardaceous degeneration is almost always of secondary 
origin, occurring as a sequel of some other disease ; for ex- 
ample, prolonged suppuration, or marasmus. A case in 
which it followed strangles is recorded by Williams. Lar- 
daceous degeneration first appears in the muscular coats 
of the small arteries, infiltrating the muscle fibre-cells and 
adjacent coats of the interior, and eventually affecting the 
other coats. Thence it invades the cells and intercellular 
substance of the surrounding parts. The affected tissue 
elements at first enlarge, become smooth and rounded, lose 
_ their nuclei, and tend to merge imperceptibly with adjacent 
cells similarly infiltrated. 

A massof homogeneous glistening material is thus formed, 
which is scantily supplied with blood, partly owing to the 
pressure exerted on the vessels by the swollen tissue, and 
partly to the narrowing of the channels of the small arte- 
ries by infiltration of their walls. 


32 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Lardaceous degeneration is especially liable to affect the 
liver, spleen, kidneys, intestines, and lymphatic glands. 

Organs in which lardaceous degeneration is at all ad- 
vanced are usually considerably increased in size, and their 
absolute weight and specific gravity are also increased. 
Their surface is smooth, and their capsule tense. Their 
consistence is firm and elastic. On section they present a 
peculiar homogeneous glistening transparent appearance, 
somewhat resembling wax or glue. Owing to diminution 
of the calibre of the blood-vessels, and to the pressure 
exerted by the new material, they contain but little blood, 
and hence are always pale on section. - 

Calcareous Infiltration consists in the deposition of cal- 
careous particles, generally between, but partly also within 
the elements of the tissues. ‘The particles are composed of 
salts of calctum and magnesium. ‘This form of infiltration 
occurs either as the result of an excess of earthy salts in the 
blood, as in osteomalacia or extensive caries, or as the result of 
impaired nutrition of tissues, owing to which earthy matter 
normally held in the blood in solution is deposited in them. 
Of the latter arterial calcification will serve as an example. 

Pigmentary Infiltration—Here pigmentary particles are 
deposited in the tissue elements, just as fat or calcareous 
particles are deposited in other degenerations. This form 
of deposit has been noticed in the lungs of horses, 


FEVER. 

Fever is an abnormal condition of the system, character- 
ized by undue elevation of temperature. The mean tem- 
perature of the horse, taken in the mouth and rectum, is 
estimated at 99° to 102° F. The average temperature of a 
large number of records of blood-horses, under similar con- 
ditions, taken by us in the morning, was 100°5° F, 

The external parts of the body in the healthy condition 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. Sa 


are generally speaking lower in proportion to their distance 
from the centre of the circulation, and are liable to much 
variation, according to the state of the atmosphere. 

The temperature of the body represents the balance be- 
tween the production and loss of heat, both of which 
factors are under the control of the nervous system, and 
are brought into constant relation with each other by cir- 
culation of the blood. In fever this equilibrium is dis- 
turbed, and the temperature rises. 

If the temperature exceeds 106° F. it is called hyper- 
pyrectic ; if it exceeds 104° it is high, and if below 103° it 
is slightly febrile. 

An elevation of temperature may result from diminution 
of heat, loss, or from an increased production of heat, or 
from both combined. 

Fever, however, is in all probability mainly due to in- 
creased production of heat, as is evidenced by the rapid 
emaciation and the increased elimination of products of 
oxidation of tissues, viz., urea, uric acid, carbonic acid, etc. 

In fever, other conditions also are associated with eleva- 
tion of temperature : 

The skin is generally hot, and dry. In some cases it is 
bathed in perspiration. 

Restlessness and delirium, are common nervous symp- 
toms. 

The febrile condition is frequently ushered in by a chill 
or rigor, due to the excessive and spasmodic contraction of 
the cutaneous arteries. The skin is therefore either gene- 
rally, or in certain parts relatively, or actually cold. 

The pulse and respiration are quickened in proportion to 
the rise of temperature, and the character of the pulse is 
modified. In the normal condition the pulse varies in 
number from 36-40, and the respirations are about 8 per 
minute, 


3 


34 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Digestive disturbance is indicated by the dry mouth, 
coated tongue, thirst, anorexia, and constipation. 

The Urine is scanty, more highly coloured, of higher 
specific gravity, and its solid constituents are both relatively 
and absolutely increased. In some instances, however—in 
acute pneumonia, for example—the chlorides are said to be 
diminished and sometimes absent. 

General Emaciation takes place in proportion to the 
intensity and duration of the fever. 

Varieties of Fever are based upon (1) the course and 
character : 

A fever is said to be continuous when it persists for some 
time, and with diurnal variations not exceeding the normal 
limits. It is remittent when the diurnal variations are 
exaggerated, but the minimum does not reach the normal. 
It is intermittent when the diurnal variation is exaggerated 
and the minimum does reach the normal. It is relapsing 
when the fever is paroxysmal, each paroxysm being sepa- 
rated by intervals of one or more days, during which the 
temperature is normal. 

Varieties of Fever are also based upon the (2) severity 
and character of the febrile symptoms as a whole : 

Fever is called simple when it occurs in a mild or trifling 
form. It is called inflammatory when it is associated with 
acute local inflammation ; specific when it depends upon. 
the introduction of a specific poison in the blood (vide ‘ In- 
flammation’); Malignant when it is very severe and of an 
exceptionally fatal type. 

Asthenic or Adynamic Fever is characterized by symp- 
toms of great weakness and prostration, by comparatively 
slight rise of temperature, and by the skin being covered 
with cold clammy sweat. 

_ The Typhoid State denotes a low febrile condition, in 
which the mouth and tongue become dry and the breath 


GENERAL PATHOLOGY. 35 


becomes fetid. There is great frequency, feebleness, and 
sometimes irregularity of pulse ; liability to passive conges- 
tion of dependent parts ; low delirium, and coma. 

It is supposed to be due to defective elimination and 
accumulation in the blood of the waste products of nitro- 
genous tissues. 

Hectic Fever is of an intermittent or remittent type. It 
occurs in connection with persistent purulent discharges, 
comes on insidiously, and is of long duration. It is asso- 
ciated with marked progressive emaciation. 

Termination and Stages of Fever.—The stages of fever 
are termed the ‘initial stage,’ the ‘fastigial stage,’ or 
‘acme,’ and stage of ‘defervescence,’ or ‘ decline.’ 

Fever may terminate in death or recovery. In the event 
of afavourable issue, the temperature falls suddenly by crisis, 
or gradually by lysis. It may fall by a combination of these 
two methods, as, for example, in febricula, when it some- 
times first falls several degrees by crisis, and then gradually 
reaches the normal by lysis. 


COLLAPSE AND SYNCOPE, 


Collapse and syncope are characterized by functional de- 


pression, and may result from a variety of causes. They 


may be due to some specific poison in the system; to high 
fever ; to suppression of certain secretions ; to the action of 
extraneous poisons, as, for example, antimony and arsenic ; 
to excessive pain; to rupture or perforation of internal 
organs ; to violent injuries, and to hemorrhage, and other 


causes. 


In Collapse the temperature usually falls ; the skin is cold, 
and the respirations are slow and shallow. The pulse is 
small and feeble, sometimes rapid, sometimes very slow. 
There is extreme debility. The animal may be sensible, or 
there may be partial or complete insensibility. 


J—2 


36 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Syncope differs from collapse mainly in the suddenness of 
the symptoms and in their shorter duration. 


DEATH. 


Death may begin at the heart, iungs, or brain. When the 
heart’s action suddenly and completely ceases, death is said 
to occur from syncope. When its action more gradually 
ceases, being accompanied by a gradual failure in the general 
vitality, death is said to occur from asthenia. 

When death is due to interference with respiration, it is 
said to take place from asphyxia, 

Death from coma begins at the brain, and is characterized 

by stupor and insensibility. 
_ Finally, death is said to occur from necroemia when it is 
due to decomposition of the blood, In this case the heart 
ceases because the blood is no longer able to afford the 
necessary stimulus. As examples of this mode of death 
may be mentioned that occurring in purpura hemorrhagica, 
scarlatina, and anthrax, and several other diseases. 


CHAPTER III. 
THE VEGETABLE PARASITES. 


For many years scientific men have been endeavouring to 
discover the nature of the so-called contagion of the acute 
specific fevers. Now, each one of these fevers runs a more 
or less definite course, and presents special characteristics of 
its own by which it is recognised. The poison of each 
multiplies in a most marvellous degree, and one diseased 
animal may spread the fever among countless numbers by 
the agencies of contagion and infection. 

Even so long ago as the Great Plague of London, the 
belief was expressed that the pestilence was probably due 
to some living organism, which entered the blood of man 
and multiplied there and that the virus was capable of 
passing from him, through the medium of the air or by 
actual contact, to others. But in those days men had not 
the means at hand necessary for the discovery of such living 
parasites. | 

That the poison could not be gaseous or liquid was soon 
obvious, and hence it was regarded as a solid in a state of 
fine division, and has been proved to be insoluble in fluids. 
These facts, as well as its remarkable power of multipli- 
cation, seemed to indicate that the contagion was some 
living organism; hence the origin of the germ theory of 
disease. 

In 1838 Bassi and Audouin discovered the fungous nature 


38 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of the muscardine disease of silkworms; and in 1840 Henle 
expressed a belief that living organisms, probably vegetable 
in nature, were the causes of the acute specific fevers. 

Long before Schwann and Cagniard de Latour had dis- 
covered that yeast consisted of cells, probably vegetable in 
nature, which multiplied by gemmation, a close parallel 
was noticed between the infective diseases and the pro- 
cesses of fermentation. 

The germ theory started by Astier, Schwann, and 
Cagniard de Latour, and perfected by Pasteur is accepted 
by most scientists of the present day, and all the processes 
generally known as fermentation and putrefaction are looked 
upon as due to the action of vegetable organisms. 

Now various micro-organisms have been demonstrated in 
the blood and tissues of animals suffering from various in- 
fective disorders, of which group the acute specific fevers 
form a division. 

These organisms are of a vegetable nature, and as they 
possess neither root, stem, nor leaves, are referred to the 
Thallophyta. They have no chlorophyll, or green colour- 
ing matter, and they thus form a group of the class of 
Fung. 

There are three kinds of pathological fungi : 

(1) The Bacteria, or Schizomycetes, ¢.g., Bacillus An- 
thracis. 

(2) The Yeasts, or Blastomycetes, ¢.g., Oidium Albicans. 

(3) The Moulds, or Hyphomycetes, ¢.g., Tinea Tonsurans. 

The Bacteria, besides causing putrefaction and several of 
the fermentations, include almost all the organisms which 
are believed to cause the infective diseases. 

THE BACTERIA OR SCHIZOMYCETES are unicellular, 
strongly refractile, very minute organisms. ‘They vary in 
shape, and appear to be structureless, though they may 
possess a cell-membrane allied to cellulose. They may be 


THE VEGETABLE PARASITES. 39 


round, oval, rod-shaped ; straight, wavy, or in the form of 
a corkscrew. ‘They are never branched, and they multiply 
by transverse division, which in the rod-shaped forms occurs 
at right angles to the long axis only, but in the round forms 
may take place in two directions at right angles to each 
other. In some of the Bacilli, spore formation has been 
observed to alternate with multiplication by the above 
process of fission. This spore formation is sometimes pre- 
ceded by the growth of the rods into long filaments. The 
new cells thus formed by fission may separate or may 
remain united to each other, end to end, forming chains, 
or lying side by side in: more or less spherical colonies, 
they are frequently bound together by a viscid intercellular 
matter—zoogleea—formed of mycoprotein or swollen cell- 
membrane. 

Bacteria multiply at an enormous rate, and Cohn esti- 
mates that a single organism may give rise to over 16,000,000 
in twenty-four hours. 

Single round cells have only what is termed the ‘Brownian’ 
movement ; but chains and colonies do seem capable of 
locomotion (Ogsten). The red forms often have a mobile 
and a motionless stage ; but some, ¢.g., the Bacillus Anthracis, 
never move. 

CONDITIONS OF LIFE: Food.—Each fungus must be 
supplied with the materials from which it can extract the 
elements necessary for growth. These elements, which will 
vary with each kind of organism, are carbon, hydrogen, 
nitrogen, sulphur, calcium, potassium, and magnesium. The 
first four are provided by carbo-hydrates (starchy or saccha- 
rine compounds) and albuminoids; the others by inorganic 
salts. Some Bacteria can assimilate nitrogen and carbon 
from much less complex bodies than albumen and carbo- 
hydrates, as is shown by the growth of putrefactive organisms 
in Cohn’s fluid. 


a 


40 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Very small variations in the composition of the food 
material may favour the development of one form rather 
than another. 

As an example of this, it is noteworthy that Koch was 
unable to inoculate a field-mouse with organisms which 
always produced fatal septicemia in a house-mouse. A 
similar difference may exist between two animals exposed 
to the action of a specific virus, when one of them is in- 
fected while the other escapes. Thus a very slight change 
in the system, or in part of it, may enable organisms to 
grow in it, though previously unable to do so. 

Pasteur has divided Bacteria into erobious and anzro- 
bious, according as they require for life free oxygen or not. 
The Bacillus Anthracis dies in the absence of free oxygen. 
Bacterium Termo and the yeast-plant can live with or with- 
out it. For Bacillus Septiceemia of rabbits, air is not only 
unnecessary but even fatal (Pasteur). 

Temperature.—Each organism flourishes best at a special 
temperature. In some, as in Bacillus Tuberculosis, the 
range within which growth can take place is very limited ; 
in others, the range is much greater. 

The reproduction of Bacteria ceases at 5° C., and that of 
many at a much higher temperature, but death does not of 
necessity ensue. 

Some are said to resist the greatest degrees of cold, and 
the spores of Bacillus Anthracis have been exposed to 
— 140° C. without manifest injury. 

Dry spores of Bacillus Anthracis are able to resist ex- 
posure to a temperature of 140° C. for over two hours. 

Boiling, and even a much lower temperature than 100° C., 
will kill many forms. Boiling for one or two hours will 
destroy all non-spore-bearing organisms, but solutions con_ 
taining spores will not be sterilized unless the exposure to 
this heat is continued for many hours. 


THE VEGETABLE PARASITES. 41 


Rest.—Some fungi flourish better in a still medium than 
in one constantly agitated. Bacillus Anthracis divides 
actively in the circulating blood, whereas other forms seem 


to settle before so doing. 


Clinically, two great divisions of organisms are recog- 
nised: (1) The pathogenic, which can invade living tissue, 
and by their growth there almost always cause disease ; 
(2) The non-pathogenic, which can only grow in dead 
tissue. Bacterium Termo, the cause of putrefaction, is the 
most important of these. 

Infective diseases are divided, according to certain 


characteristics of the virus, into: 


1. Contagious.—These are communicable from individual 
to individual, and are frequently epidemic. The virus runs 
its whole course of development in the body. 

_ 2. Miasmatic.—These are endemic diseases, of which 
malarial fever is an example. The poison which causes 
these diseases is developed outside the body. 

3. Contagio-Miasmatic.—In these the poison has to 
undergo some change external to the body, and the diseases 


seem to be always derived indirectly from a previous case 


of the malady. As an example, cholera may be given. 

4, Septic.—The poisons of these may be derived from 
many putrid infusions. When once thus started, the 
disease can be transmitted directly from individual to 
individual. 

The Bacillus Anthracis is the best known of all the endo- 
parasitic fungi. As this germ is the cause of splenic fever 
of cattle, anthrax of the horse, and malignant pustule of 
man, it will be well to give ashort outline of its distinguish- 
ing features and conditions of life, as well as of Pasteur’s 
method of inoculating animals by the attenuated organism 
as a preventive against future invasion. In the blood 
from the enlarged spleen of animals dead of splenic fever are 


49 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


found enormous numbers of rods, 5 to 20 w long by about 
1 w broad, straight and motionless. 

In a suitable culture-material, with a good supply of 
oxygen and a temperature between 15° and 42° C., the rods 
develop into very long filaments. In these filaments, round, 
highly refractile spores form at short and regular intervals. 
The filaments then break up, and the spores escape and may 
grow into bacilli. In living animals the rods multiply 
solely by division, and long filaments and spores are never 
found. ) 

The rods are found in enormous quantities, especially in 
the spleen, lungs, liver, kidneys, mucous membrane of the 
intestines, and in various other parts. 

Bacillus Anthracis is always present in splenic fever in 
enormous numbers. The bacilli may be separated and 
washed with distilled water, alcohol, ether, and dried ; yet 
they still cause anthrax fever when inoculated into animals. 
Pure cultivations through fifty generations may be made 
with the same result. This germ always gives rise to anthrax 
_ fever, and never to any other. Therefore, in conclusion, we 
recognise in this germ the direct cause of this malady. 

Now, M. Pasteur asserts that he has succeeded in modify- 
ing the micro-organism of anthrax by artificial cultivation, 
and that by inoculating animals with the attenuated virus 
he is able to cause a mild form of the disease, conferring a. 
certain immunity against future attacks. | 

Pasteur’s Method of Preparing Vaccine, or Attenuated 
Virus of Anthrax.—A drop of blood, on a glass rod, is 
taken from an animal in the last stage of anthrax. It is 
now placed in a suitable clear pabulum, such as fowl broth, 
previously rendered sterile by subjecting to a temperature 
of 115° C. The vessel containing the fluid is kept in pure 
air at a temperature of 42° to 43°C. The fluid gradually 
becomes cloudy, but no spores are developed, 


THE VEGETABLE PARASITES. 43 


Now, one drop of the fluid thus prepared, and in which 
the first degree of attenuation is produced, is put into 
another vessel containing fowl broth and placed under the 
same conditions as the first. This process is repeated until 
the requisite degree of attenuation is reached. ‘The 
greater the intervals which elapse between each cultivation, 
and the greater the number of cultivations, the less virulent 
will the culture become. 

The ‘vaccine’ may be injected into the subcutaneous 
tissue. Great care is required in obtaining the requisite 
degree of attenuation. 

Large numbers of sheep and other animals have been 
thus inoculated by Pasteur, and the results of his labours 
attest the practical value of his investigations. 

Quite recently M. Pasteur has notified that he has been 
able to confer immunity from hydrophobia by inoculating 
with the attenuated virus of this disease. 

The Blastomycetes or Yeasts.—These are roundish or 
oval cells which sometimes form chains by joining end to 
end. 

The yeasts multiply by gemmaticn, or when food is not 
abundant by the formation of spores in the interior of the 
cells. They never invade living tissues, and are of far less 
importance in the causation of disease than the Schizomy- 
cetes or Bacteriaand the Hyphomycetes or Moulds. As an 
example of the group of yeasts may be mentioned the 
Oidium Albicans. 

The Hyphomycetes or Moulds.—These consist of fila- 
ments called hyphe, formed by a single row of cells placed 
end to end, growing by means of an apical cell which elon- 
gates and divides transversely. 

The Thallus usually consists of numerous hyphe, though 
it may be formed of one only. Several skin diseases are to 
be attributed to invasion by these vegetable parasites. 


‘ 


44 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Tinea Tonsurans is due to the growth of Trichophyton 
Tonsurans, and Tinea Favus to Achorion Schloénleinii. Bur- 
satee is similarly due to the growth of one of these moulds, 
as also is Actinomycosis and the ‘Madura foot’ of India. 
The mould causing Bursatee has been described by Mr. F. 
Smith, of the 12th Royal Lancers, in the Veterinary Journal 
for July, 1884.* 

The Actinomyces, the vegetable fungus of Actinomycosis, 
is of recent discovery, though even so long ago as the year 
1872 the late Mr. D. Gresswell expressed his belief that 
many of the indurations of a certain character met with in 
the tongues of oxen, and variously described as schirrhous 
and tubercular, were due to the invasion by a ‘ vegetable 
mould.’ With this view, accordingly, he treated them with 
the injection of sulphurous acid, and sometimes of carbolic 
acid or tincture of iodine. 


* Mr. Smith writes: ‘The actual exciting cause of Bursatee is a 
mould fungus. I have found it in every fresh specimen of the sore that 
I have examined. ... The filaments or hyphe are branched not 


as they pass in and out of the tissue. . . . I have lately produced typical 
Bursatee ulcers by inoculation with portions of the tumour, and am at 
present working this out, and endeavouring to produce the sore from 
the cultivated moulds.’ 


CHAPTER IY. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 
FEBRICULA, OR SIMPLE FEVER. 


Definition.—Febricula is a simple fever characterized by 
rigors, elevation of temperature, quick pulse and respira- 
tions, Itisa benign affection, and usually terminates in 
restoration to health, and unaccompanied by serious com- 
plications. 

Etiology.—Among the causes of simple fever are: ex- 
posure to cold and wet, variations in temperature, fatigue, 
and irregular dieting. 

Symptoms.—The first stage, 2¢. the attack, is usually 
ushered in by a rigor or shivering fit, with rise of the in- 
_ ternal temperature from 101° to 105° or more. The pulse is 
usually raised to 60 or 70, the respirations are somewhat 
accelerated, and there is loss of appetite. In the second 
stage, which follows in a few hours, the fever reaches its 
acme. The volume of the pulse is increased and the surface 
temperature rises, the bowels are costive, and the internal 
temperature remains elevated for several days. In the 
third stage, or stage of decline, or defervescence, as it is termed, 
the temperature usually falls several degrees by crisis, and 
then gradually falls to the normal by /ysis. 

Treatment.—Place the animal in a loose, well-ventilated 
box. In the early stage the surface temperature should be 
kept up by friction and by moderate clothing. Medicinally, 


46 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


liquor ammonie acetatis, spiritus etheris nitrosi, and 
potassium nitrate or bicarbonate may be given three times 
daily. The diet should consist of bran mashes, linseed 
gruel, grass, carrots, etc. 


STRANGLES. 


Synonyms.—Febris pyrogenica; morbus glandulosus ; 
gourme (French) ; colt-ill; druse, kropf (German). 

Definition.—A_ specific febrile disorder, in which there 
are purulent accumulations in the connective-tissue of the 
submaxillary region and in the neighbouring glands, accom- 
panied by inflammation of the upper air-passages. 

Origin of the name Strangles.—This disease received 
its name from the great difficulty of respiration, accompanied 
by a trumpet-like sound, more marked in inspiration, these 
early signs resembling those of strangulation. 

Geographical Distribution.—Widely spread over the 
whole world, but said to be absent in Africa and Arabia. 

Varieties.—Benign and malignant strangles. 

Prognosis.—The benign form seldom extends beyond a 
period of fourteen days, and nearly always terminates 
favourably. Malignant strangles may be of one or two 
months’ duration, and the animal may die of various com- 
plications, viz., pyzemia, asphyxia, or peritonitis. 

Contagium.—Strangles is, no doubt, both contagious and 
infectious, and may assume an epidemic form. 

Etiology.—This disease is more prevalent in autumn and 
summer than in spring. Young horses, between the age of 
two and three, are especially liable to become affected, though 
it is not uncommon for aged horses to take it. The disease 
takes on the malignant form when the animals have been 
subjected to mal-hygienic conditions and to other debilitating 
influences. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 47 


Immunity.—<An attack doubtless renders an animal less 
liable to future ones, but it is not absolutely protective. 

Symptoms of the Benign Form.—The animal is dull 
and shows signs of mild catarrh. ‘The disease is ushered in 
with simple continued fever. There is soreness of throat, 
slight cough, difficulty of swallowing, and disinclination to 
feed. 

The pulse and respiratory movements! are somewhat 
accelerated, and the temperature is elevated. 

There is swelling in the neighbourhood of the throat, 
which may occupy the space between the rami of the lower 
jaw, or may be found on one side of the throat only, or 
may be more generally diffused. The swelling gradually 
enlarges, and ultimately pus may be detected by fluctuation. 
In some cases the glands and tissues in the region of the 
larynx are more seriously involved, and the symptoms 
become more severe. (Udema of the glottis, with implica- 
tion of the other structures around, as well as general 
infiltration of the submucous tissue of the larynx, which 
may follow, cause difficulty of respiration and the production 
of the trumpet-like sound in inspiration and expiration. 

This sound, which is most marked in inspiration, usually 
passes off under treatment. Sometimes this inflammatory 
condition is still more severe and persistent, and is a source 
of danger to life by suffocation. 

Symptoms of the Malignant or Irregular Form of 
Strangles.—The fever is more severe and the tissues of 
the glands themselves become affected and suppurate. The 
parotid glands, and sometimes the inguinal, mesenteric, 
and tracheal glands become affected. 

The fever sometimes lasts for a considerable period. 
When abscess is formed in the internal organs, the 
symptoms will vary in accordance with the organs involved, 
and the fever will be subject to intermissions and irregular 


48 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


paroxysms. Exhaustion, acceleration of respiration, prostra- 
tion, local dropsies, marked wasting of tissue, and occasion- 
ally irregular cardiac action follow. 7 

Difficulty of respiration and cough usually occur, if the 
abscess be in connection with the mediastinum, and death 
may ensue from pus finding its way into the bronchi, or 
owing to the neighbouring organs becoming involved in the 
inflammation. If the mesenteric glands be affected, peri- 
tonitis may ensue and prove fatal. 

Sequele of Strangles.—Roaring, or whistling, is some- 
times left as a sequel of strangles. The most important 
sequelz, however, are pyzemia and septicemia, the former ~ 
being accompanied by the formation of abscesses. The onset 
of pyzmia is accompanied by sudden increase in the febrile 
manifestations by regularly recurring paroxysms, irregular 
action of the heart, and accelerated respiration. Shortly, 
multiple abscesses form in various parts, especially in the 
limbs. The structures in connection with the joints may be 
invaded by these small abscesses. When the lung or heart 
or liver is invaded, there is but little hope of recovery, and 
pneumonic, cardiac, or enteric symptoms are developed. 

Bacteria have been demonstrated in pyzmic lesions, and 
it is probable that when pyzemia results in cases of strangles, 
it is traceable to the fact that the animal has been 
under bad hygienic conditions during the primary 
malady. 

Treatment of Strangles.—The animal should be placed 
under good sanitary conditions. In mild cases, such remedies 
as magnesium sulphate, sodium sulphate, potassium nitrate 
and bicarbonate will suffice. If laryngitis and tracheitis 
be present, camphor, ipecacuanha, and potassium nitrate 
may be administered, Inhalations of carbolised steam are 
of great value, Counter-irritants may be applied to the 
throat: for this purpose we may use ammoniacal liniments 


GENERAL DISEASES. 49 


or a smart cantharides blister. If these do not give relief, 
poultices may be applied to the throat. 

Blister or poultice any enlargements, and when fluctuation 
is detected, open with the lancet, keeping the parts as clean 
as possible with an antiseptic solution. 

The diet should at first be laxative, consisting of mashes, 
roots, grass, linseed gruel, etc. When the fever defervesces, 
tonics and stimulants and more liberal diet may be given. 

Tracheotomy should be avoided, if possible, but if there 
is danger of asphyxia, this operation should not be delayed. 

Method of performing Tracheotomy.—FElevate the head 
and make a longitudinal incision, about two inches long, in 
the mesial line of that part of the trachea least covered over 
with muscular or other tissue. This spot wiil be found to be 
about the junction of the upper and middle third of the 
trachea. ‘Two or more rings may be divided transversely, 
or a circular portion may be excised. In the latter case a 
needle armed with a ligature is passed through a ring of the 
trachea, and then a circular portion is removed with the 
knife. ‘The tracheotomy tube is now inserted, and is left 
as long as the difficulty of breathing continues. In malig- 
nant strangles, such antiseptic medicines as sodium salicylate, 
salicine, or sodium sulphite, are well worthy of trial. 


INFLUENZA. 


Synomyms.—Distemper; epidemic catarrh; the epidemic ; 
epizootic catarrhal fever ; panzootic catarrhal fever ; febris 
catarrhalis ; courbature, morfondure. 

Definition.—Is a specific febrile disease, usually involving 
the upper air-passages, and subject to a variety of complica- 
tions. It generally appears as an epizootic, and its contagi- 
ousness, though affirmed by many, is still denied by some. 

Geographical Distribution and Historical Review.— 

4 


50 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The first recorded outbreak of this malady occurred at 
_ Seville, in the beginning of the 14th century. In the years 
1688 and 1693, severe epidemics occurred throughout Europe. 
In these epidemics horses were first affected, and then 
followed similar fevers in man. The last great outbreaks 
in this country were in the years 1863, 1864, and 1871 
and 1872. The disease is widely distributed over the old 
and new worlds. 

Varieties and Complicated Forms.—(1) The usual simple 
catarrhal form ; (2) Complicated forms are— 

A. The thoracic form. 
B. The abdominal form. 
C. The rheumatic form. 

Prognosis.— Usually favourable. 

Sequele.—If the pericardium be affected, pericardial 
adhesions may result, and if the heart be affected valve 
lesions may remain. 

The upper air-passages may be so altered as to cause 
abnormal sounds, as, for example, roaring. 

Etiology.—This disease appears in all climes and at all 
periods of the year, but is more prevalent in spring and 
autumn. It affects alike animals of all ages, breeds, and 
sex. It is not proved to be influenced by geological strata, 
climatic or astronomical causes. _ Animals are predisposed to 
attack by bad sanitary conditions, ¢g., by overcrowded 
stables and defective ventilation. 

General Symptoms of Influenza.—Great prostration, with 
catarrhal inflammation of the respiratory, and sometimes 
of the other, mucous membranes, accompanied by pyrexial — 
symptoms, characterize all the varieties of influenza. 

Symptoms of the Uncomplicated Catarrhal Form.—In 
many cases the constitutional symptoms are but slightly 
marked. ‘The legs and ears are usually cold, and there is 
a short irritable cough and sneezing. The throat is some- 


GENERAL DISEASES. 51 


times swollen and tender to the touch. ‘The pulse is feeble 
and frequent, and the thermometer indicates a variable 
_ elevation of temperature. In a few days the temperature 
may rise to 105° or 106° ; the pulse may reach 60—80 beats 
per minute, and the respirations become accelerated. The 
other symptoms also increase in severity: the cough becomes 
deeper and deeper ; the throat becomes sore, and difficulty 
of swallowing follows in consequence. 

The debility and prostration becomes more intense, and 
thirst is marked. The nasal mucous membrane, at first dry, 
becomes moistened, and there is a discharge of mucus. The 
bowels are sluggish, the feces become hard and coated with 
mucus, and the urine is scanty and high-coloured, often 
containing albumen, or excess of urea and hippuric acid or 
of urates. 

In about a week the symptoms gradually abate. The nasal 
dischargeincreases in amount, becoming thicker and purulent. 
The cough is moister, and the temperature falls by lysis, 
and convalescence is established in about fourteen days from 
the onset of the fever. 

Sometimes, however, recovery is retarded, and the pyrexial 
symptoms recur. ‘This is owing to the implication of the 
glandular structure around the throat, and of the neigh- 
bouring connective tissue, terminating in suppuration in 
the submaxillary and parotid glands, or in the surrounding 
tissue. | 

A Special form of Catarrhal Influenza, known by the 
names of ‘pink eye,’ ‘pneumo-enteric fever,’ ‘ epizootic 
cellulitis,’ has of late been very prevalent. By some it has 
been regarded as a distinct disease, but it is probably 
only a modified form of simple influenza. In this form, 
the conjunctiva is of a pinkish colour, and in many cases 
the sub-conjunctival tissue is infiltrated with hcemorrhagic 
exudation, The constitutional symptoms. are sometimes 

| 4—} 


52 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


very severe, and the temperature may rise to 105° or 106°, 
or even to 107° 

Sometimes severe pneumonic symptoms develop, when 
large portions of one or both lungs become implicated. 
Violent diarrhoea, colicky pains and other enteric symptoms, 
may supervene also. In some cases there is total loss of 
power in the hind-quarters, and sometimes, though rarely, 
cerebral symptoms may be manifested. 

When occurring in strong horses, pneumo-enteric fever 
is usually a mild affection, but when attacking animals in a 
low condition it is more serious. The more the internal. 
organs, as the lungs, intestines, and heart, are involved, SO 
much more dangerous is the malady. 

The sudden death which sometimes occurs has been at- 
tributed to the formation of thrombi in the cavities of the 
heart, and also to actual cardiac lesions. 

Symptoms of the Complicated Forms— 

A. Thoracic Form.—In this form the respiratory organs 
especially, or the cardiac organs, or both, may become 
affected, more commonly the former. Mr. Robertson divides 
the thoracic forms of influenza into (a) capillary bronchitis, 
(b) capillary bronchitis with cardiac disease, and (¢) pleuro- 
pneumonia. All these forms may be detected by careful 
auscultation, and in all the pulse is frequent and feeble, 
and in cardiac disease of irregular rhythm. 

The pneumonia of influenza is characterized by the soft 
dull cough, acceleration of pulse, coldness of the extremities 
and of the surface of the body. The pneumonia, being of. 
the asthenic type, may terminate in gangrene and disintegra- 
tion of the lung-tissue. 

B. Abdominal Form.—tThis form is called ‘ bilious fever’ 
by some, ‘typhoid fever’ by others. It is, however, in 
reality to be regarded as a complicated form of influenza. 

In this variety the symptoms of gastro-enteric irritation 


GENERAL DISEASES. 53 


follow upon the catarrhal symptoms. The visible mucous 
membranes are yellowish in colour, the bowels are con- 
stipated, the fever is quickened, and there is great pros- 
tration ; the pulse is remittent, and the temperature varies 
from 101° or 102° to 104°, 

C. Rheumatic Form.—This form usually manifests itself 
towards the close of the ordinary symptoms of catarrh. It 
may be diagnosed by the pain in the joints, which crack 
when moved, and after a time swell. 

Although the joints are especially liable to be affected, 
the muscles and the flexor tendons below the knee and 
hock are also sometimes involved. The swellings, like those 
of rheumatic fever, are metastatic. Cardiac complication 
may appear in this form of influenza. 

Immunity.—One attack of influenza does not secure im- 
munity from a secend or even a third. 

Morbid Anatomy of Influenza.—There is inflammation 
of the mucous membrane of the respiratory tract, extend- 
ing into the minute bronchi, and pulmonary lobules are 
thus often found collapsed. In the various complications 
we find corresponding pathological lesions. In some large 
towns, patches of ecchymosis have been noted in the stomach 
and fore part of the alimentary canal. 

The blood is dark in colour, and contains micrococci. 

Treatment.—The animal should be placed under good 
hygienic conditions, and should be kept warm with rugs. 
Rest is in all cases essential. 

_ The diet should at first be laxative, and consist of mashes, 
linseed gruel, roots, etc. 

Medicinally, nitrate of potassium may be given in the 
water. Also liquor ammoniz acetatis and spirit of nitric 
ether may be given in the form of a draught twice or three 
times daily. Sulphite of sodium in two drachm doses, or 
sulpho-carbolate of sodium in one drachm doses, twice daily, 


54 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


may be given in addition. If laryngitis come on and be 
serious, camphor and belladonna may be administered, and 
hot-water vapour, medicated or not, may be inhaled. peters 
or poultices also may be applied to the throat. 

When convalescence is established, vegetable tonics with 
‘ammonium carbonate, or full doses of sulphate of iron or 
other tonics, may be given. . 

If the lungs are involved, the application of hot-water — 
blankets to the chest is called for, or a smart counter- 
irritant may be applied. 

If the bowels are affected, doses of morphia and chloric 
ether should be given to alleviate the pain, and hot. appli- 
cations or soap liniment used externally. If the bowels are 
costive, oleum lini or magnesium sulphate may be ad- 
ministered. If the bowels continue unrelieved, give a gentle 
dose of calomel. In the rheumatic form, hot applications and 
stimulating liniments should be employed for the swellings, 
and doses of bicarbonate of potassium given internally. If 
the temperature be high, salicylate of sodium is indicated. 


GLANDERS AND FARCY.--EQUINIA. 


Synonyms.—Equinia apostimatos; malleus humidus; far- 
cina equi; affection morveus ; morva farcino (Italian). 

Definition.—A specific, highly contagious fever, which, 
though especially affecting the equine race, is readily trans- 
missible to man, sheep, goats, felines and rodents. 

The mucous membrane of the nose, frontal sinuses, and 
larynx and trachea, are specifically affected. There may be 
inflammation of the lymphatic glands, vessels, and skin, and 
small round buds known as ‘farcy buds’ may form and 
develop into pustules. 

Geographical Distribution and Historical Review. — 
Glanders is described by Aristotle and Vegetius, and we 
read of it as far back as the time of Constantine the Great. » 


= 


GENERAL DISEASES. 55 


It is said to be absent in Australia, and rare in India, 


except when imported. It is mostly a disease of temperate 


climes, and is well known in Norway and Java. The form 
of the malady usually met with in this country is chronic 
glanders. : 

Contagion.—The contagium is present in many of the 
secretions and in the blood of the diseased animal. It is 
present in the greatest virulence in the discharges from the 
ulcers and nose. 

Inoculation.—The disease is developed when infected 


_ material is given either in the water, or the food, or in the 


form of a bolus. The disease may be communicated by 
inoculating an abraded surface of the skin, or by injecting 
the virus into the blood-vessels. 

Incubation.—The period of incubation varies. Most 
writers state it at three to seven days. It is, however, 
probable that it may sometimes greatly exceed this limit. 

Varieties.— Acute and chronic glanders; acute and 
chronic farcy. 

Etiology.—It is difficult to ascertain in what way the 
contagium gains access to the system. It is almost certainly 
due to some definite materies morbi, which will probably 
prove to be some form of bacterium (vide Chap. III.). 

Horses which have been subjected to debilitating causes, 
as bad sanitary conditions, overwork, improper food, are 
especially susceptible to this malady. 

Symptoms of Acute Glanders.—The febrile symptoms 
arevery marked. Rigors may be persistent. The tempera- 
ture rises rapidly to 105°, and may even reach 107° or 108”. 
It remains elevated for a variable number of days. The 
pulse is rapid, feeble, and sometimes fluttering, and its 
volume is diminished. The respirations are accelerated ; 
the urine, especially when the fever is declining, is some- 
times pale, increased in amount, and albuminous. The 


56 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


appetite is impaired, and there is marked debility and 
emaciation. The Schneiderian membrane varies in colour 
from a light to a dark brown, and the other visible mucous 
membranes are highly congested. 

In a few days (three to six) the febrile symptoms abate, 
returning again after a variable period of remission, during 
which the characteristic local lesions are developed. The 
pituitary membrane, especially that of the nasal septum 
and of the ale, becomes studded with small tubercular 
nodules arranged in groups, or more generally diffused over 
the surface of the mucous membrane. When, as sometimes 
occurs, the subjacent tissue of the latter is much infiltrated, 
the patches become more prominent. , 

The nodules vary in size from a small seed to a pea, and 
appear as projections on an elevated base of congested 
mucous membrane. They have a yellowish white centre, 
surrounded by a greyish zone, round which is again a 
reddish one. 

In a few days the diffuse patches and nodules gradually 
soften, and ulceration commences in the central portions of 
the latter. ‘Thus, as the epithelium is removed, there is 
produced a characteristic ulcer with irregularly excavated 
borders. The floor and edges of the ulcer may become 
studded with small nodules, and covered with prominent 
vascular granulations. 

The ulcers gradually extend and coalesce with one another, 
forming larger ones, which eat their way into the underlying 
tissue, and even at times lead to necrosis of the nasal 
septum. 

The above pathological changes also involve the larynx 
and the mucous membrane of the sinuses of the head. The 
discharge from the nose, which during the onset of the 
febrile symptoms was yellowish and somewhat viscid, 
becomes, as the nodules ulcerate, thick, gluey, and purulent. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 57 


As the ulcers extend, the secretion may become sanguineous, 
owing to erosion of the walls of the small vessels. The 
neighbouring lymphatics and lymphatic glands, of one or 
both sides (according as one or both nasal cavities 1s affected), 
become enlarged. Those of the intermaxillary space are 
especially liable to become involved, and though at first 
painful and tender, rarely suppurate, but become harder and 
less painful. The lymphatic vessels, and especially those 
from the nose and mouth to the glands in the intermaxillary 
space, become nodulated, and may ulcerate and discharge a 
purulent fluid. 

The scalp, face, and the tissues round the mouth become 
cedematous and swollen. The affection of the lymphatics 
spreads to those of the extremities, and nodules form on 
them and gradually disintegrate. Owing to the changes 
above described, the breathing of the animal becomes 
snuffling and hoarse, and there is in many cases frequent 
and painful cough. 

Pneumonic or Pulmonary Glanders.—This is a form or 
complication in which the lung becomes variously compli- 
cated, from the formation of glanderous tubercles in its 
substance. 

It can be diagnosed by careful auscultation and percussion, 
and by the characteristic soft dry cough. There is extreme 
debility and anorexia. Dyspnceais marked. (éidema of the 
extremities and cutaneous infiltration ensue, and the disease 
generally proves fatal before the lapse of three or four 
weeks. 

Symptoms of Chronic Glanders.—Chronic glanders may 
continue for many months without obviously affecting the 
general health of the animal. It differs from the acute form 
of the disease in the facts that its local phenomena are 
more important and numerous, and that the constitutional 
symptoms are more trivial and variable. The chronic form, 


58 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


differing from the acute form, is more liable to develop con- 
stitutional signs at the later, than during the earlier, stages 
of the disorder. Usually there is a discharge—never absent 
where nodules or ulcers are developed—from one or both 
nostrils. The discharge is at first like that of common 
catarrh, but it gradually becomes thicker, viscid, pasty, and 
mingled with greenish yellow purulent matter, and has a 
tendency to adhere round the nasal orifices. Pathological 
changes similar to those described under the acute form 
occur in the mucous membrane of the nose, and in addition, 
parts of the latter occasionally become denuded of epithelium, 
the place of which is taken by a soft granular substance. 

There is great tendency for the lesions not to heal, but 
to progress, and spread to the cartilage and the bone. The 
ulcerated and denuded surfaces may heal by cicatrization, 
the cicatrices themselves being sometimes slightly depressed. 
Although the nasal ulcers may heal, yet the disease may 
still remain, and nodules be present in the lungs and else- 
where. Eventually, also, the nasal ulcers may again resume 
activity. 

Even when the sores have cicatrised the power of infection 
is not lost. 

The lymphatic glands in the intermaxillary space enlarge, 
and are somewhat painful, but become gradually indurated, 
fixed to the jaw, and distinctly nodulated. 

Chronic glanders is liable suddenly to manifest acute 
symptoms, especially during the latter stage of the disease. 


ACUTE FARCY. 


Definition.—Farcy is a form of glanders in which the 
cutaneous connective-tissues and superficial lymphatics, gene- 
rally or conjointly, are especially liable to be involved. 

Cause.—Farcy occurs as the result of direct inoculation 


Sey, oP yer!) ¢ 7 
ial wea.” P _ ee 


GENERAL DISEASES. 


with the discharges of farcy or glanders, or fro 
and is said by some to arise de novo as the result o 
ing influences and mal-hygienic conditions. 

Symptoms.—The first symptoms are those of aver | 

_ Rigors set in, and elevation of temperature to 106° or even 
to 108° may occur, but this height is not often reached. 
‘There are local swellings, generally confined to the extremi- 
ties. They manifest themselves by engorgement of a whole 
limb, and resemble the swellings of acute lymphangitis. 
The engorgement appears as a generally diffused swelling, 
involving the cutaneous and underlying tissue, and the limb 
is hot and painful, and there is marked lameness. As the 
general cedema subsides, specific nodules, ‘farcy buds,’ and 
an enlarged condition of the veins and lymphatics become 
more manifest. Sometimes the oedema is not so generally 
diffused, but occurs in localised circumscribed forms, on 
which the specific buds arise. The lymphatics reaching from 
these buds to the lymphatic glands, or reaching from one bud 
to another, become enlarged and corded. The nodules gene- 
rally appear in the cedematous tissue somewhat suddenly, 
and are situated in the skin or the subcutaneous tissue, and 
may extend even to the muscles. They vary in size from 
a pea to a marble, and are not sharply differentiated from 
the surrounding tissue. In a few days the buds disintegrate 
and the sores are formed. ‘These farcy ulcers, several of 

_ which may coalesce, are deep, with ragged edges, and tend 

to extend and discharge an abundant creamy fluid tinged 
with blood. 

As in the ulcers of glanders above described, the floor and 
sides of these rodent sores of farcy are covered with rounded 
elevations resembling vascular granulation-tissue. 

Distinct nodules, which soften and discharge a yellowish 
purulent fluid, develop in the painful, swollen, and corded 
lymphatic vessels. The ulcers thus formed have likewise a 


60 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


tendency to coalesce. The swollen and nodulated lymphatic 
glands themselves, as in glanders, very rarely suppurate. 
The fever, which is of either the remittent or the hectic 
type, is liable to exacerbations marked by rigors and localised 
perspirations, and emaciation and prostration are marked. 


Not uncommonly, acute glanders is developed in these 
cases. 


CHRONIC FARGCY. 


~ Chronic farcy differs from the acute form only in intensity 
and duration. It is a very common form of equinia, and 
is more amenable to treatment than the other manifesta- 
tions. The special features are eminently local. Fever, 
when present, is more remittent than in the acute form, 
and the constitutional symptoms are not so severe. In 
this disease, circumscribed inflammatory nodules, which vary 
in size, are developed in connection with the skin and sub- 
jacent tissues. They afterwards soften, ulcerate, and dis- 
charge a purulent fluid, and the ulcers have little tendency 
to heal. The nodules are especially liable to invade the skin 
where it is thin and vascular, as over the facial, maxillary and 
laryngeal regions, and along the neck, thigh, forearm, and 
flank. The lymphatic vessels and glands are also affected 
as in acute farcy, but the vessels are less liable to become 
nodulated, and the infiltrated state may remain in an indo- 
lent condition and eventually disappear. The glands them- 
selves are not so painful nor so much swollen and infiltrated, 
and suppuration follows more rarely than in glanders or 
acute farcy. 


Morbid Anatomy, Diagnosis and Treatment of Equinia. 


Morbid Anatomy. The glanderous nodules which were 
mentioned as being found in the pulmonary tissues are of 
the size of a millet-seed, and grow in the connective-tissue 


GENERAL DISEASES. 61 - 


of the lung, and are subject to fatty, caseous, and calcareous 
change. On section they are of a translucent pearly-grey 
colour, surrounded by a zone of inflamed tissue. In struc- 
ture they are identical with those found in the nasal cavity ; 
but the latter, not being imbedded deeply in tissue, more 
readily ulcerate and discharge. 

There remain for consideration two forms of morbid change, 
which, though important, are not frequently met with, viz. : 

1. Tumours, or Abscesses.—These are generally found on 
the more exposed parts of the body: the scapularregion, sides, 
and haunches. ‘They are quite distinct from the nodules 
above described, and are larger, more defined, and less prone 
to ulcerate. ‘They bear a greater resemblance to ordinary 
cysts or abscesses than to the specific lesions of equinia ; but 
in the contained fluid, in disposition to fill when emptied, 
and in the slowness of healing, they agree with the latter. 

2. Diffuse Infiltrations.——These infiltrations are usually 
situated in the limbs in the neighbourhood of the joints, and 
usually accompany the pseudo-rheumatic symptoms. They 
exhibit a tendency to rapid change of situation, appearing in 
connection with some other joint, and in this they resemble 
the rheumatic inflammations. 

Diagnosis.—The diagnosis of equinia is usually not at- 
tended with difficulty ; but in some cases, especially in those 
of pulmonary glanders, it is not always easy to arrive at a 
definite conclusion. 

Glanders is now of far less frequent occurrence in this 
country than it formerly was, and this is largely due to the 
adoption of measures based upon its undoubtedly infectious 
character, and the management of horses in accordance with: 
this idea. 

Treatment.—Animals affected with the various forms of 
equinia are, in the interests of the community, destroyed, in 
order to prevent further spread. The rules of the Conta- 


62 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


gious Diseases (Animals) Act are to be carefully observed. 
The stables should be thoroughly disinfected with sulphurous 
oxide gas, or by means of chlorine generated by the action 
of sulphuric acid on calcium chloride or bleaching powder 
(chloride and hypochlorite of calcium). The walls of the 
stables are thoroughly washed and scraped, and may be 
cleansed with lime-wash containing one pint of carbolic acid 
in each bucketful. The harness and fittings and other articles 
which have been in contact with the animal should also be 
thoroughly cleaned with carbolised water. 

Remedies.—The remedies which have been used in equinia 
are arsenic, iodine, cupric biniodide, potassium iodide, 
sodium sulphite, and many others. 

Of all internal medicines, iodine is in all probability the 
most potent in the various forms of equinia. It has been 
given in acute glanders in man with success, and has also 
been administered in many cases of the acute form in the 
horse. 


VARIOLA EQUINA. 


Synonyms.— Horse-pox ; constitutional erease ; variole du 
cheval ; pferdepocken. | 

Definition.— Variola equina isa mild specific fever, accom- 
panied by the development of an eruption which passes 
through a papular, vesicular, and pustular stage, and is pre- 
ceded by a period of incubation during which no abnormal 
phenomena are manifested. 

Incubation varies from four to eight days. 

Diagnosis.—This disease has been mistaken for glanders 
and farcy, and also for eczema and impetigo. 

Contagium.—Is propagated by direct contact, and probably 
also by infection. It may be produced by artificial inocula- 
tion in the horse and other animals, but the susceptibility of 
the horse to the virus of variola is greater than that of cattle 


GENERAL DISEASES. 63 


and sheep. The virus obtained from the vesicles and that 
in the saliva and crusts is especially potent. Whether one 
attack secures immunity against future ones or not is un- 
certain. 

Symptoms.—Two or three days before the eruption deve- 
lops, there may be mild fever and signs of impaired health, 
but these preceding symptoms are in most cases unnotice- 
able. The eruption commences as indurated red papules, 
circular in shape, and shortly becoming depressed in their 
central portions, and encircled by a bright red areola. Ina 
few days the papules become vesicular, and contain a clear 
fluid which soon becomes more opaque. 

' Lastly, a scab forms, which if accidentally detached, 
discharges a limpid fluid, and leaves a depression, which - 
gradually fills by granulation. 

If the scab be not detached by force, healing by cicatriza- 
tion, with little or no suppuration, will be accomplished in 
fifteen to twenty days. 

During the period of eruption, and even after desiccation, 
there is usually considerable swelling of the limbs and 
inferior surface of the abdomen. 

The swelling may remain for several weeks after con- 
valescence. 

Sometimes the pustules become confluent, and large 
ulcerating surfaces are then produced, causing death of 
large portions of the skin and subcutaneous tissue. 

‘ Situation of Eruption.—The eruption is especially seen 
on the extremities, from the knees and hocks to the feet. 
The hind limbs especially are liable to be affected, and often 
swell. 3 } 

Other seats of eruption are the muzzle, lips, nostrils, 
the mouth, sides of the tongue, and the nasal mucous 
membrane, 

In these places the spots are smaller than those on the 


64 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


extremities ; and with their presence are associated saliva- 
tion, impaired mastication, considerable fever, and swelling 
of the submaxillary glands. 

The eruption may be distributed over the whole body. 
Complete restoration to health is often retarded by the 
development of a secondary eruption of spots, or by com- 
plications. 

Prognosis.—Is usually favourable. The disease generally 
lasts about fifteen to twenty days from the time of infection 
to the desquamative process. The eruptive stages extend 
over a period of eight days of this time. 

Treatment.—-Attend to the hygienic conditions. 

Salines and fever medicines may be administered, and 
the diet should be laxative. 

If the mouth is sore, gargle with carbolic acid solution 
(1 part in 150 of water), or with a weak solution of zinc- 
sulphate or sulphurous acid. 


ERYSIPELAS. 


Synonym.—St. Anthony’s Fire. 

Definition.—-Erysipelas (<guw, I draw, and werag, near), is 
a specific febrile disease, accompanied by inflammation of 
the skin, and—in most cases—the subcutaneous tissues, 
with an eruption, not developed in every case; much pain, 
heat, and swelling. 

Varieties.—(1) Simple cutaneous; (2) Cellulo-cutaneous, 
or phlegmonous ; and (3) Cellular erysipelas. 

Etiology.—LErysipelas is more liable to attack the weak 
and debilitated, and is probably due to some specific 
poison. 

When occurring in association with an injury, it is termed 
traumatic, and when appearing spontaneously it is termed 
idiopathic. | 


x 
. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 65 


With the traumatic variety it is our purpose to deal 
in the manual of equine surgery. The cellulo-cutaneous, 
or phlegmonous, form is the one most frequently met with 
in the horse. It is rather malignant, and involves the skin, 
subcutaneous and other tissues. The simple cutaneous 
form is rare, and, when it does occur, is a mild affection. 

Symptoms.—These are : (1) general, and (2) local. 

1. General Symptoms.—The fever, when occurring in 
young and in strong horses, is usually of the sthenic type, 
while in the older and in the debilitated animals it is of the 
asthenic or adynamic type. In all except the mildest 
cases it tends to pass on to a low prostrating form. The 
fever is ushered in by a rigor; the temperature is raised, 
and there is muscular pain. The mouth is hot, the tongue 
furred, the breath has an acrid smell, and the bowels are 
confined. 

2. Local Symptoms of the Simple Form.—Consist in 
redness (not easily observable in the horse), roughness, and 
slight swelling of the skin, which pits on pressure, accom- 
panied by the formation of vesicles and frequently by serous 
infiltration of the subcutaneous tissue. Desquamation 
follows. 

Local Symptoms of the Phlegmonous Variety.—The 
effusion into the subcutaneous tissues is at first serous, 
and the swelling pits on pressure. With the progress of 
the disease the parts become harder, more brawny, and 
more painful; and the local tension of the skin is increased. 

Numerous vesicles, or phlyctenz, preceded and accom- 
panied by serous exudation, may be developed. They do 
not occur in every case, but when formed are a charac- 
teristic feature of erysipelas. 

In the severer forms the serum of the vesicles becomes 
bloody and albuminous. 

_ The inflammatory action going on in the subcutaneous 
5 


66 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


tissue may terminate in suppuration, and the pus formed 
may burrow in the meshes of the connective-tissue. Thus 
large portions of skin and tissue may be destroyed. If, how- 
ever, the inflammatory action is not excessive, the effusion 
is absorbed, and the vesicles speedily desiccate and form 
scales, which separate in time. In cases of a very severe 
type, sloughing of the tissues may spread to the more 
deeply-seated structures, and involve the muscles, ligaments, 
sometimes even leading to necrosis of the bones. 

In some cases the pus may find its way into the joints, 
causing their disintegration, and producing constitutional 
disturbance so serious as to prove fatal. 

The mucous membrane of the mouth and nose may also 
become affected. In phlegmonous erysipelas the fever is 
very severe. ‘The pulse is quick and feeble; the respira- 
tions are hurried, and the pain is intense. 

Prognosis.—The milder forms may terminate favourably 
by desquamation in ten to fourteen days. 

The phlegmonous variety, in which the fever is of a 
typhoid character, is in most cases fatal. 

The cellular form is very rarely seen in the horse. 

Diagnosis.—Erysipelas may be confounded with scar- 
latina, acute farcy, and lymphangitis. Yet by carefully 
noting the symptoms, they are easily distinguished. 

Treatment.—The patient should be placed in a well- 
ventilated loose box, and a mild purge of calomel or aloes, 
or both, may be given. We may then administer liquor 
ammoniz acetatis, with camphor and nitric ether, three times 
daily. If the temperature be very high, salicylic acid may 
be tried, in full doses, twice or thrice daily. The tincture 
of perchloride of iron is recommended by some from the 
earliest onset of the disease. In the human subject this 
remedy is regarded as a specific in erysipelas. 

As the disease progresses, stimulants become necessary ; 


; GENERAL DISEASES, 67 


and aromatic spirit of ammonia, in doses of 2 ounces, or 
whisky, in doses of 3 or 4 ounces, may be given three 
times daily. Quinine may also be given, and other 
vegetable tonics. Potassium chlorate may be dissolved in 
| the water during the acme of the fever, if the thirst be 
. great. 
Local Treatment.—Foment for two hours, three times 
daily, with warm water. When exudation has taken place 
into the subdermal tissues, free scarification is recommended 
by some. If abscesses form, they should be freely incised, 
so as to allow of the escape of pus, and the parts should 
be dressed with carbolic solution (1 part in 40). 

Raw surfaces, and unhealthy sores especially, should be 
kept thoroughly clean by antiseptic solutions. 


CEREBRO-SPINAL FEVER. 


Synonym.—pizootic cerebro-spinal meningitis. 

Definition.—Cerebro-spinal meningitis is an acute specific 
febrile disease, often assuming the form of an epizootic, and 
affecting in particular the coverings of the brain and spinal 
cord. 

Etiology.—The cause of this malady is not known. It is 
especially prevalent in America, where dietetic errors are 
said by some to produce it. 

It is most probably due to some specific germ. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms usually come on suddenly. 
They begin with dizziness and vertigo, quickly followed by 
total loss of motor power, which is often so complete and 
sudden that the horse falls prostrate to the ground. 

Lhe pulse and respirations are accelerated ; there is often 
hypereesthesia, or increased nervous sensibility, especially 
at the anterior part of the animal, and clonic contraction of 

5—2 


68 . MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


the superior cervical and dorsal muscles, passing In some 
cases to opisthotonos. 

In most cases, although the wild look of the eyes and 
injected conjunctive indicate that the cerebrum is affected, 
yet consciousness is not usually impaired. When, however, 
the cerebrum is more deeply affected, coma with slow pulse 
and stertorous breathing follow. The bowels are con- 
stipated ; the urine is often suppressed, and there may be 
incontinence, especially in mares. Pressure over the spine 
causes pain. The temperature is variable. It may, or may 
not, be elevated, and is intermittent. 

In mild cases, which may be met with at any time during, 
but usually occur towards the close, of an epizootic, the lead- 
ing symptoms are not so quickly developed. There may be 
pulmonary complications in this fever, and when this occurs 
the danger is increased. Priapism in horses and cestrum in 
mares are of frequent occurrence. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Pathological ‘lesions are especially 
marked in the membranes of the brain and spinal cord, 
which are found highly congested. The fluid of the sub- 
arachnoid space is turbid, and increased in amount, and all 
the vessels of the brain and cord are often congested. 

In many cases patches of ecchymoses are found on the 
dura mater. 

Prognosis.—If the symptoms come on slowly, the prog- 
nosis is, as a rule, correspondingly less grave. The number 
of fatal cases is large, and so the prognosis should always 
be guarded. The mortality may be as low as 10 or reach 
as high as 70 per cent., or even higher. 

At the beginning of an epizootic the percentage of 
fatal cases is said to be higher. Even when a case is 
apparently progressing favourably, a relapse may occur. , 

Treatment.—If practicable, it is advisable to sling the 
animal as early as possible. The extremities should be kept 


GENERAL DISEASES. 69 


warm. Cathartics, ¢g. aloes, with or without salines, may 
be given. Belladonna and ergot have been found of much 
benefit. The former may be administered hypodermically 
in the form of sulphate of atropia. 

During convalescence, vegetable tonics with iodine may 
be given, and if paralysis remain, doses of strychnine, iron 
and quinine should be administered. LElectricity also may 
be tried. In cases of great prostration, quinine or cinchonine 
and alcoholic stimulants are useful. 

Locally, apply ice-bags to the spine, or hot water, as re- 
commended by Dr. Chapman. 

The spine may also be rubbed with stimulating liniments. 

The diet should be nourishing and laxative. 


ANTHRAX. 


Synonyms.—Splenic fever; charbon; charbone; malig- 
nant carbuncle; gloss-anthrax; carbuncular fever; miltz- 
brand (German); carbone (Italian) ; jaswa (Russian). 

Historical Review.—Anthrax is mentioned in the Scrip- 
tural narrative as the ‘ blain,’ which affected both man and 
beast. It is described by the Greek and Latin writers. 
The former termed the disease oidyua when occurring in 
animals, and aoa¢ when affecting man. The Latin writers 
termed the disease sacra ignis in animals, and carbunculus in 
man. 

Anthrax, though now of rare occurrence among horses, 
frequently raged as a malignant epizooty throughout 
Europe, in past times. ‘The seventeenth and eighteenth 
centuries were remarkable for the devastations made by 
many epizootic outbreaks of anthrax. 

In 1617 it was of such a fatal type, that around Naples 
over 60,000 persons perished from partaking of the flesh 
of animals which had died of the disease. 


70 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In 1731-32 an epizooty of gloss-anthrax raged among the 
domesticated animals in the States of Central and South- 
Western Europe. 

The years 1757, 1763, 1779, 1780, and 1800 were 
marked by a charbonous malady, which extended nearly 
all over France, and affected all the domesticated 
animals. 

Gerlach, in 1845, first demonstrated the contagious 
character of the disease; and Pollender, in 1855, first 
demonstrated the vegetable rod-like organisms, or bacilli 
anthracis as they are termed, peculiar to the malady. 

Geographical Distribution.—Anthrax is of universal 
distribution, no clime being exempt from its ravages. As 
an epidemic and epizooty among men and animals, it breaks 
out in Siberia, where it is termed the ‘ Siberian plague.’ 
As ‘Loodianah disease,’ it is of freauent occurrence in 
Central Hindoostan. In Australia it is termed ‘ Cumber- 
land disease. It is also met with in North and South 
America, and Central and Southern Africa. 

Definition.—Anthrax is an acute infective disease, of 
rapid development and extreme fatality ; appearing usually 
in an enzootic form ; affecting all animals, including birds 
and fishes, but more especially solipeds and ruminants, and 
characterized by the presence and rapid multiplication of 
the bacilli anthracis in the blood and tissues. 

Etiology—Direct Causes of Anthrax.—The immediate 
cause of this disease is the entrance of the bacillus anthracis 
into the blood, and its development there. 

These vegetable organisms may gain entrance into the 
system by direct inoculation, by the digestive tract, or by 
the air-passages. 

Predisposing Causes.—Anthrax is especially prevalent in 
low-lying, swampy districts, where the soil is rich in organic 
matter and salines; these conditions being in the highest 


GENERAL DISEASES. yaa | 


degree favourable to the growth and development of these 
low forms of vegetable life. 

The same influences also may act upon animals, rendering 
them more fitted for the reception of these germs, and we 
know, from many experiments, of what great significance 
the nature of the soil or pabulum is to the growth and mul- 
tiplication of bacteria. We may mention three instances : 

Fowls were once believed to possess an immunity against 
anthrax. Now, M. Pasteur showed, by immersing fowls in 
water and thus lowering their temperature, he was able to 
inoculate them with the disease, though when not thus 
immersed he was unable to induce the development of 
anthrax in them. 

Again, rats, when fed on animal diet, resisted inoculation, 
while others, fed on bread, readily contracted the disease. 

Chauveau was unable to inoculate Algerian sheep by the 
ordinary method, though virus from the same vessel readily 
induced the disease in other sheep. 

These experiments illustrate clearly of what importance 
the nature of the soil is to the growth of the germs placed 
in it. Animals in which no other disease is present, and 
those in a plethoric condition, are especially liable to attack, 
and young animals, also, are more likely to contract the 
disease than older ones. And it is in those warm, low-lying, 
marshy districts, where food especially rich in nutritive 
value is grown, and where, in consequence, animals are 
best nourished, that they afford a more genial soil for the 
reception of these vegetable parasites. 

Again, it has been shown in many cases in moist districts, 
where anthrax has been long endemic, that after thorough 
drainage the disease disappeared entirely. 

A hot, stifling atmosphere, charged with electricity, is 
said also to favour the development of these germs. 

Modes of Propagation of this Disease.— Many attacks 


72 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


have been traced to the indiscriminate burial of diseased 
carcases. According to M. Pasteur, the spores of the bacillus 
are brought to the surface by earth-werms, even ten to 
twelve months after burial of diseased carcases; but this 
method of propagation is doubted by some. 

Dogs, after feeding on diseased flesh, may bite sheep, and 
thus inoculate them with the disease. 

Flies feeding on anthrax blood have been shown to 
absorb sufficient poison in their proboscides to give the 
disease to animals inoculated with the contents. 

Anthrax may be spread by eating contaminated food, by 
water percolating the soil and carrying with it the germs of 
the disease. Knives uncleaned may also propagate the 
disease. 

The germs are said to be more volatile in spring and 
summer, less so in autumn, and still less in winter. 

Although anthrax has not been shown to be infectious, 
yet there is every probability that it is. The disease often 
first appears in districts where it may be enzootic, and then 
assumes an epizootic form. 

Incubation.—Varies from a few hours to one, two, or 
even four days. 

Symptoms of Anthrax, without Special Localization, 
or Anthrax’ Proper, or Anthrax Fever, or Anthrax 
Apoplectica.—This disease is rare in Great Britain. 
The symptoms appear suddenly. The horse has violent 
muscular tremors, perspires freely, and breathes with 
difficulty and irregularly. There is complete loss of control 
of the muscular movements, especially of the lumbar 
muscles, and those of the posterior limbs in particular. The 
animal staggers and dies convulsed. These acute symptoms, 
especially those of nervous complications, may, however, 
abate in two or three days, and finally end in death or 
recovery. However, the symptoms are not always so 


GENERAL DISEASES. 73 


rapidly developed. They may begin with small, weak, and 
dicrotous pulse, uneven surface temperature, and violent 
tumultuous action of the heart. The internal temperature 
is high, but generally falls before death; the conjunctival 
membrane is swollen and of a yellowish-red hue. ‘There is 
disinclination to move, inco-ordination, and loss of power in 
the muscles of locomotion, and twitching of the muscles 
in various parts. Drowsiness and stupidity, with much 
prostration, are marked symptoms. There is a yellowish 
discharge from the nose, often tinged with blood, and the 
nasal membrane is often covered with blood extravasations. 

The breath is foetid and the superficial lymphatics 
swelled ; abdominal pain, shown by uneasiness, pawing, and 
looking to the sides, is sometimes manifested. The feces are 
fluid or blood-stained ; the skin is harsh and dry, and in 
some cases it crepitates when pressed towards the loins 
or sides. The respiration becomes tumultuous and hurried 
the nostrils dilated, and the animal foams at the mouth. 
The temperature declines, the animal staggers at every 
step ; convulsions, and delirium or coma ensue, and death 
closes the scene. 

Symptoms of Anthrax with Localization.—Anthrax in 
horses is not so frequently marked by local symptoms as 
in the ox and sheep. 

‘Nevertheless, a critical eruption of so-called anthrax 
tumours is sometimes present in certain epizooties, in which 
horses, as well as other herbivorous animals, are involved’ 
(Fleming). 

At a certain stage in the febrile symptoms there is an 
external eruption in various regions. This consists in the 
development of ‘tumours’ or ‘anthrax-pustules’ in the 
interstices of the muscles, in the loose areolar tissue, and in 
the lymphatic glands. They are especially met with in the 
submaxillary space in the upper part of the throat, the 


74 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


lower part of the neck behind the shoulders, on the back, 
and in the inguinal region. | 

They may appear as small rounded nodosities, about the 
size of a walnut, and having as it were a pedunculated 
base. 

In other cases the tumours appear suddenly as large, soft, 
crepitating, undefined swellings, and invade many surround- 
ing parts. As they rapidly extend they become cold and 
insensible, and vesicles or phlyctenz appear on the surface. 
These vesicles, quickly bursting, discharge an irritant serous 
fluid. If the hand be passed over these swellings crepita- 
tion may be felt. This is due to gas from the decomposition 
of the tissues collecting in the connective-tissue, and thus 
rendering the part emphysematous. This is a special 
feature of the tumours of anthrax. 

Sometimes the tumours appear without being preceded 
by any very marked symptoms, and their course is in all 
cases the more rapid the earlier they make their appearance. 
In two to eight hours they attain a large size, and the 
surrounding tissues mortify as they are invaded. 

As the tumours are developed, the fever abates and the 
urgent symptoms vanish. When they have attained a 
certain proportion, general symptoms are developed, which 
vary according as the malady takes a favourable course or 
not. 

In some rare cases the tissue of the tumours is suddenly 
absorbed, and abundant sweats and fetid diarrhcea ensue, 
and the animal recovers rapidly. In some cases the tumour 
disappears by resolution, but generally the tumours vanish, 
and coincidently the disease assumes all the characters of 
anthrax fever without local manifestations; the general 
symptoms reappear, and the horse dies in about twelve 
hours. 


wa.” 
3 
} 
_ » 


| 


GENERAL DISEASES. 15 


ANTHRACOID DISEASES. 


There remain for consideration two forms of anthrax 
characterized by pathological lesions of special parts. These 
are glossanthrax and anthracoid angina, 

Neither has as yet been demonstrated to be due to 
the presence of bacillus anthracis in the blood. Neither 
form is common, and both are generally found associated 
together. By some authors they are termed anthracoid dis- 
eases (avbpaé and eidos, like). 

Glossanthrax.—The local symptoms which are rapidly 
developed in glossanthrax probably slightly precede the 
general disturbance of the system. Glossanthrax isa rare 
disease, and is generally associated with anthracoid angina. 
There is an eruption of vesicles, or phlyctenz, on the sides, 
dorsum, and sometimes on the freenum of the tongue, and on 
the buccal membrane of the mouth and lips. 

The vesicles vary in size from a nut to a hen’s egg, and 
contain at first a clear yellowish serum, which gradually 
becomes of a brownish-black colour. They rapidly increase 
in size, and break, and the acrid contents are discharged, 
being mingled with the abundant flow of saliva. 

The tongue itself is swollen and hard, hanging from the 
mouth, and is of dark bluish or black hue. 

It is often lacerated by the teeth, and deglutition becomes 
difficult, and the animal is soon unable to swallow fluids. 

When the vesicles have burst, they leave an unhealthy 
ulcerated surface, which often has a gangrenous appearance, 
and becomes coated over with a yellowish exudation. This 
is removed, and exposes the ulcerating sore. 

The vesicles usually form a few hours before death, and 
the constitution, previously not affected, becomes seriously so, 
and the animal usually dies in twelve to twenty-four hours. 
The condition of the tongue is often associated with inflam- 


76 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


mation and swelling of the throat and the structures around 
the throat—anthracoid angina. 

Anthracoid Angina.—This is a disease rarely occurring 
unassociated with glossanthrax. It consists in infiltration of 
the glands and connective-tissue in the region of the throat, 
the swelling being hot and painful. The swelling proceeds 
rapidly, involving the structures of the head, and soon the 
glottis and pharynx become cedematous. Thus the breathing 
becomes difficult, and death results from asphyxia, 

There is often a sanguineous discharge from the nose, ac- 
companying the swelling around the throat and larynx. 


THE LOODIANAH DISEASE. 


This disease is the form of anthrax commonly seen in 
India, the name being derived from the fact that the malady 
assumes a very severe form in Loodianah, in India. 

It is especially seen in low damp situations where the sani- 
tary conditions are defective. 

The symptoms differ very little from the anthrax fever 
occurring in Europe. The temperature may in some cases 
reach as high as 108° or 109° F. 

The percentage of recoveries is small. 


THE CAPE HORSE-SICKNESS, 


or Paard-Zietke, is another form of anthrax which affects 
horses in the Cape of Good Hope and other parts of Southern 
Africa. 

Immunity from Anthrax.—One attack does not secure 
immunity from a second. 

Morbid Anatomy of Anthrax.—Animals which die of 
anthrax are especially prone to decompose rapidly. 

The subcutaneous connective-tissue is found distended 
with a yellowish serosity and gas. ‘The skin itself is stained. 


GENERAL DISEASES. Vig’ 


The intestinal mucous membrane is softened, deeper in 
colour, and studded with rounded infiltrations. Peyer’s 
patches are enlarged ; the peritoneum presents blood extra- 
vasations, and the folds often contain a yellowish exudation. 
The mesenteric glands are swollen and infiltrated, and the 
veins all over the body contain dark blood. 

The pleuree are ecchymosed and stained, and the pericar- 
dium and endocardium are similarly affected. The walls of 
the heartare weak and flabby, andthe pericardialsac contains 
fluid. ‘The lungs may or may not be congested, and there is 
frothy mucus in the air-tubes, and the lining membrane is 
infiltrated. The spleen is enlarged, sometimes being treble 
the ordinary size, and is friable and full of black tarry-— 
looking blood. The liver is abnormally friable. The pelvis 
of the kidney and the lining of the bladder are ecchymosed. 

The brain is congested, and its membranes also. There 
is also effusion into the subarachnoid space. The spinal cord 
and its membranes are similarly affected. There is infiltra- 
tion of the yellowish exudation into the retro-pharyngeal 
and laryngeal tissues. 

In anthrax attended by local manifestations, we shall find 
carbuncular elevations, above described, and large, deep, 
yellow ulcerated cavities. 

Blood.—There is decrease in the elements of fibrine ; the 
white cells are increased in number ; the red cells cohere in 
masses, and are shrunken. 

Bacilli may be observed under the microscope as cylin- 
drical rods 5-20 uw in length, and about 1 w in breadth, 
straight, with slightly concave ends and motionless. The 
rods elongate into filaments which divide by fusion. Spores 
develop at 30° to 35° C., and give a beaded appearance. 

If the temperature is lower than this, spores are not 
developed, nor are they formed if the temperature is above 
40° to 47° C. 


78 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


There is no development without oxygen. 

(For further particulars of the Bacillus Anthracis, vide 
Chap. III.) 

The post-mortem appearance of anthrax will vary much 
with the symptoms shown during life; and in cases of 
artificial inoculation bacilli will be found at the seat of 
the lesion. 

Morbid Anatomy of Glossanthrax. — Pathological 
changes are especially found about the larynx and tongue, 
and consist in extensive infiltration of yellowish exudate 
and extravasation of blood in that vicinity. The tongue 
is swollen and of a dark purplish hue, and presents vesicles 
and sores left by the bursting of some of them. 

The salivary and lymphatic glands are enlarged and in- 
filtrated, and the glottis is cedematous., 

Treatment of Anthrax.—Give a mild laxative, ¢.9., aloes 
or salines, and also some antiseptic remedy, as carbolic acid, 
sulphite of sodium, or sulpho-carbolate of sodium. 

If carbolic acid be selected, 30 minims may be dissolved 
in a pint of water, and given thrice daily. If sulphite of 
sodium be selected, it may be administered in large doses 
thrice daily in the acute stages of the disease. 

Special symptoms, such as abdominal pain, will require 
special treatment in addition. 

Mineral acids may also be given. Chlorine and other 
inhalations have been recommended. If there be much 
debility, alcohol may be administered, and tonics should be 
given in convalescence. ‘The food should be as nourishing 
as possible, and should be given in a liquid form. If the 
animal is unable to swallow, it will be necessary to give it 
in the form of an enema. 

Tumours, when formed, should be incised, and either 
cauterized or dressed with antiseptics. 

Treatment of Glossanthrax.—lIf the vesicles appear on 


a cee re, 
4 ‘ 


GENERAL DISEASES. 79 


the tongue, they should be opened and dressed with car- 
bolic acid solution. ‘The internal treatment is the same as 


above recommended for anthrax. 


If the tongue is much swollen, we may scarify deeply, 
and treat with a solution of carbolic acid (2 per cent. 
solution). 

Hot-water vapour when inhaled is of benefit. It may be 
medicated with advantage. The swellings should be fo- 
mented with hot water. In some cases where the swelling 
is producing suffocation, tracheotomy is necessary. 

Prophylactic Measures in Anthrax.—Carefully examine 
into the food and water supply, and take special care that 
there be no escape of effete matter into the wells or ponds. 

Ascertain if the food be mouldy or fermenting, as mouldy 
grains have been asserted to cause anthrax in some in- 
stances. (Vide Veterinarian April, 1878.) 

The healthy animals should be isolated from the affected 
ones ; and the stables in which the horse contracted the 
disease or died, and all implements, such as harness fittings, 
etc., should be thoroughiy disinfected and cleansed. The 
carcases should be interred deeply, and the litter and 
manure should be burned (Fleming).! 


1 [In an article in the Veterinary Journal of J anuary, 1884, we have 
recorded a large number of cases of anthrax fever in horses and beasts 
treated by the administration of sulphite of sodium. We believe it to 
be of the greatest value in this disease, and of more potency than 
any other antiseptic, and we also believe it to be in a measure preventive. 
The late Mr. D. Gresswell, F.R.C.V.S., used this remedy in all cases of 
anthrax in the horse and beast coming under his care. 

In the British Medical Journal of June 14, 1884, Mr. Baker, F.R.C.S., 


Surgeon to St. Bartholemew’s Hospital, records a case of ‘Malignant 


Pustule’ in man treated by excision and the administration of sodium 
sulphite. The disease was contracted from handling infected bales of 
wool from China. The case terminated in complete recovery. Mr. 
Baker adds that he was induced to select this drug from a perusal of 
the cases recorded by us in the Veterinary Journal and the success 
attending its use. 


80 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


PYAEMIA AND SEPTICAEMIA. 


‘These diseases result from the absorption and dissemi- 
nation of substances derived usually from septic disease of 
some wound or inflammation’ (Green). 

By septicemia we understand a form of septic disease un- 
accompanied by the development of secondary inflam- 
mations. 

By pyemia is meant a septic disease characterized by the 
presence of secondary or metastatic suppuration. 

Nature, Pathology and Morbid Anatomy of Septicemia 
and Pyzmia.—Koch has shown that by injecting five 
minims of blood or meat, in an early stage of putrefaction, 
under the skin of a house-mouse, the animal at once becomes 
restless, and its movements weak and uncertain. 

The respirations become slower and irregular, and death 
occurs in about four to eight hours. No _ pathological 
lesions are found, and the blood taken from the animal 
and inoculated into others has no effect. The disease is 
therefore non-infective, and as it follows the absorption of 
putrid matter into the blood, and is not accompanied by 
secondary inflammation, it is therefore a septiczemia. 

The effect of the poison is comparable with the results of 
the injection of a poisonous alkaloid. This form of septi- 
ceemia is termed ‘ septic intoxication.’ 

Sanderson gives the following as signs of septic intoxi- 
cation in animals : 

‘ Restlessness, muscular twitching, and increasing weak- 
ness ; profuse diarrhoea, the feeces being loose, whitish-grey, 
and later bloody. ‘The temperature rises at first, but often 
falls before death. Respiration and heart’s action gradually 
fail, and death may be preceded by cramps. 

‘The post-mortem changes found are : 


GENERAL DISEASES. 81 


‘Blood dark ; petechiz beneath the pericardium, endo- 
cardium, and pleure. Intense staining of endocardium and 
lining of the large vessels, and often a little blood-tinged 
serum in the serous cavities, both soon after death, indi- 
cating destruction of red corpuscles even during life ; intense 
congestion and ecchymosis, with shedding of the epithelium 
of the mucous membrane of the stomach and intestines ; 
spleen swollen, soft and pulpy ; liver often swollen and con- 
gested ’ (Green). 

If now house-mice be inoculated with less quantity of 
poison, the effect on the system will also be lessened. If a 
drop or two only of the blood or meat infusion be injected 
under the skin, many of the animals will show no untoward 
symptom, while about a third of them will gradually sicken 
and die. The symptoms thus manifested are: Dulness of 
the eyes ; slow respiration ; great weakness and prostration ; 
and death occurs gradually in forty to sixty hours after 
inoculation. After death there is slight cedema, sometimes 
absent, at the place of inoculation, and the spleen is much 
enlarged. 

Now, again, if a house-mouse be inoculated with a most 
minute portion of the blood from one of the animals just 
dead, the disease will be produced in it, and death will 
ensue in less than two days. 

Now, this disease thus engendered is a septicemia. But 
it differs from the first-mentioned form of disease in being 
intensely infective. 

The poison introduced gives rise to the disease by mul- 
tiplying in the blood, and not by reason of its toxic proper- 
ties, for it is in too small amount. 

A period also elapses between the time of inoculation-— 
the period of incubation—and the manifestation of symp- 
toms, during which the germs multiply. This period may 
be about twenty-four hours. 

6 


82 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


This form of septicemia is termed septic infection. 

‘The blood of animals which had died after injection of 
one to ten minims of putrid blood contained bacteria, cocci, 
and bacilli; but after inoculation it contained only bacilli’ 
(Green). 

There are thus two forms of pathological conditions under 
the heading Septicemia, viz., Septic Intoxication and Septic 
Infection. 

The former is due to absorption of chemical poison, 
manufactured in some putrefactive process going on external 
to the body. ‘The latter is due to entry of specific germs 
into the blood, and. to their multiplication there. The 
organisms in these cases probably act by producing poison- 
ous substances in their growth, but these products are not 
irritant, and therefore secondary inflammations do not 
ensue. JT'ungi which occur in the septicemia of one animal 
differ from those which occur in another. 

In pyemia, the absorption and dissemination of the 
poison gives rise not only to the general disease, but also 
causes the formation of secondary foci of inflammation, 
which are termed metastatic abscesses. 

The clinical symptoms of pyzemia are well marked ; the 
irregularity of the temperature being the most prominent 
feature. Pyzmia is complicated with more or less septic 
poisoning, The source of the infection in pyzmia is almost 
always a wound or inflammation, generally suppurating, the 
discharge being septic. In some cases, however, no wound 
is traceable. As in septicaemia, the poison gains access to 
the blood-current, which distributes it through the system. 

The secondary abscesses of pyzemia are of two kinds ; 
those which are preceded by infarction, and those in which 
we have no evidence of this antecedent occurrence. 

The suppuration is probably due to the parasitic fungi 
irritating the tissues in which they are placed. In the 


GENERAL DISEASES. 83 


former kind of abscess the infarction is due to the lodg- 
ment of an infective clot in a terminal artery. ‘The most 
frequent seats of these embolic abscesses, as they are termed, 
are the lungs especially, the liver, spleen, kidney, and brain, 
but they may occur in any vascular part of the system. 

They vary in size, and are usually multiple, and may be 
very numerous. 

The other kind of abscesses are diffuse suppurative 
inflammations in the subcutaneous and connective tissues, 
in the joints, and in the serous membranes. They are fairly 
often met with, and may or may not coexist with the em- 
bolic abscesses above mentioned. 

Besides the secondary abscesses, there are other lesions 
found on post-mortem examination. The wound, if pre- 
sent, is in a sloughing condition, perhaps surrounded by 
diffuse infiltration of the tissues, and is offensive. There 
are extensive thrombi in the veins leading from the point 
of infection ; these thrombi are undergoing infective puri- 
form softening. 

The blood is darker than in the natural condition, and 
not disposed to coagulate, and contains eacess of white blood- 
cells. Congestion of the lungs is generally present ; the 
spleen is large and pulpy; the liver and kidneys show 
granular degeneration. 

Etiology of Pyzmia in the Horse.—Pyzmia is chiefly 
developed in connection with injuries and wounds, and more 
especially in connection with suppurative-action in bone. 

It may accompany various diseases, notably the specific 
fevers. 

Symptoms of Pyemia in the Horse. —Rigors and 
localized perspirations. Sudden elevation of temperature, 
which rises and falls irregularly. It may rise to 106° or 
more, and, though variable, is always high. 

Pneumonic symptoms are often developed from the 

6—2 


84 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


formation of abscesses in the lungs. Also other special 
symptoms, due to the formation of abscesses in particular 
organs, are frequently manifested. The skin may be jaun- 
diced, and show petechial markings. In cases following 
wounds, the latter, a few days after infliction, show ab-. 
normal changes. 

Infiltration, leading to cdema and gangrene of the 
surrounding connective-tissue, comes on, and the wound 
discharges an unhealthy ichorous matter, and gases accu- 
mulate in the subcutaneous tissue. When pyzmia accom- 
panies the specific fevers, it usually first shows symptoms 
after the acme of the fever has been passed. 

Prognosis of Pyzmia.—This disease is generally fatal. 

Treatment.—Allow plenty of fresh air, and a liberal and 
nourishing diet. 

The drugs which are specially recommended are—quinine, 
arsenic, salicine and salicylate of sodium, and iron. Alcoholic 
stimulants are, no doubt, of great value in the treatment of 
pyzemia. 

Carbolic acid has also been recommended in moderate 
doses. If there be any wound, it should be carefully 
attended to, and well dressed with antiseptic lotions. 


SURRA. 


Surra is a disease widely spread in India. The name 
‘surra’ signifies ‘rotten,’ and the disease is so termed from 
the great emaciation occurring in animals affected with it. 
Our knowledge of this malady is due to the members of the 
profession residing in India—especially to Mr. Griffith Evans, 
of the Army Veterinary Department. 

Definition.—Surra is an enzootic disease, due to the pre- 
sence of a special animal parasite in the blood, and charac- 
terized by progressive emaciation, dropsical swellings, 


GENERAL DISEASES. 85 


elevated temperature, and extravasation into the visible 
mucous membranes. 

Symptoms.— The symptoms are somewhat variable. 
Fever is present ; there is a yellowish discharge from the 
nose, and sometimes the submaxillary glands are enlarged, 
and may discharge. 

The visible mucous membranes are yellow, and present 
petechiz which are especially seen on the inner canthus of 
the eye, and in the female in the vagina. The appetite 
is generally good. The urine contains albumen, and is 
highly coloured ; and there is gradual progressive emaciation 
and marked thirst. 

Sometimes in the early stages there is loss of motor power 
-in the limbs. Dropsical swellings are sometimes seen in 
the mare between the fore-legs, and in the horse in the 
sheath. | 

Etiology.—The disease is due to the presence of an ani- 
mal parasite in the blood. It is capable of being propa- 
gated by subcutaneous or intravenous injection, or by intro- 
duction into the alimentary tract of blood infected with 
parasites. It is not known how the disease is spread, but 
probably the parasite gains access into the system through 
the drinking-water. 

Prognosis.—Death usually occurs in seven to ten weeks, 
at the end of which time the animal may expire suddenly, 
or may become delirious and death ensue more slowly. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The intestinal membrane is yellow, 
and shows small extravasations. 

The peritoneal and pericardial sacs contain lymph. 

If fresh blood! be examined under the microscope, the 
parasites may be seen in groups or singly. 

They have an oval-shaped body, separated from a 
spheroidal head by a neck, and the tail tapers into a long 
flagellum. 


86 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In the cervical and in the caudal region there is a papilla- 
like eminence. 

The length of the parasites is about three or four times 
that of a white blood-cell. They are whitish in colour, and 
appear in the field to attach themselves to the red corpuscles. 
The white corpuscles are increased in number. 

Treatment.—Turpentine, carbolic acid, and other anti- 
septics are worthy of trial. 


MALADIE DU COIT. 


Synonyms.—Syphilis du chéval; epizootic paralysis ; 
contagious eczema ;, verole. 

Definition.—lIs a specific contagious disease, characterized 
in the early stages by morbid lesions in the urino-genital 
apparatus. 

Varieties.— Benign and Malignant. 

Geographical Distribution. — The disease was seen in 
Russia in 1796. Smee then it has occurred in parts of 
Africa, Egypt, and most European countries. There is no 
record of its occurrence in Spain, Belgium, and Great 
Britain. 

Etiology.—The origin of the disease is obscure. It has 
not been proved to have any relationship with syphilis. 

Symptoms of the Benign Form.—In the female this 
disease appears in one to fourteen days after copulation. 
The first symptoms are often so slight as not to attract atten- 
tion. ‘The symptoms are the same as those shown in 
cestrum ; but in this disease the sexual desire is unsatiable. 
The vaginal mucous membrane is red, and discharges a muco- 
purulent fluid, which, slight at first, becomes thick and 
viscid and coagulates on the adjacent parts. Pustules about 
the size of millet seeds appear in the vagina and fossa navi- 
cularis, The pustules become ulcers, which rapidly heal and 


GENERAL DISEASES. 87 


are replaced by others. There is oedema of the abdomen and 
extremities, and some engorgement of the submaxillary 
glands. 

The symptoms gradually disappear in two weeks to two 
months. 

In the stallion, beyond swelling of the sheath, this form 
of the maladie du coit is unnoticeable. 

The benign may pass into the malignant form in either 
Sex. 

Symptoms of the Malignant Form.—In the mare the 
symptoms begin in the same way as in the benign form, 
but soon become more pronounced. 

The lips of the vulva alternately swell and diminish in 
size. The anus, mammary gland, and perineum are 
swollen ; the vaginal mucous membrane presents furrows, 
becomes more infiltrated, and presents blue and yellow 
patches, and pustules are formed on its surface. The dis- 
charge from the vagina is excoriating. Lenticular pustules 
may appear on the external surface of the lips of the vulva, 
on the perineum, and inside the thighs. Scabs form over 
them and leave circular ulcers, which heal rapidly. The 
clitoris is swollen, and the discharge becomes reddish 
green and fetid. Urine is ejected frequently and in small 
quantities, and causes much irritation when passed. 

Mares in foal usually abort at the third month, and if the 
foal is born it is dead or soon dies. 

In the stallion the symptoms are very uncertain ; the 
disease may remain latent for avery longtime. The sheath 
is oedematous, and the swelling may extend in front and 
behind it. The testicles may or may not become swollen. 
The penis also may or may not be altered; sometimes 
purple spots are found, and the glans during erection 
may be very large. The urethral mucous membrane pro- 
jects in a globular form from the meatus, and is crimson 


88 : MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


or yellow. Urine is passed in a small jet, and with much 
pain. 

Paraphymosis, the result of local swelling, is not uncom- 
monly met with. 

General Symptoms, common to both Sexes.—There is a 
muco-purulent discharge from the nose, and also a discharge 
of tears from the eyes. The visible mucous membranes 
are highly injected. The coat is dry, and the perspiration, 
when breaking out, is offensive. Pressure over the lumbar 
region causes pain, and the animal rests first on one hind- 
limb and then on the other. The lymphatic glands in 
the neighbourhood of the genital organs are engorged, and 
those in the submaxillary space are similarly affected. The 
animal is much debilitated, and walks with uncertain gait ; 
the large joints are tumefied and painful; the haunch 
especially is affected. ‘The pain causes the animal to lift 
its leg while at rest, with a sudden jerk. 

The appetite is generally pretty good. Often one or both 
hind extremities becomes paralyzed, and the entire muscu- 
lar system becomes atrophied, especially the hind-quarters 
and legs. 

The nasal membrane becomes yellow, and the buccal mem- 
brane of purplish hue. | 

The mammary gland may inflame and suppurate. During 
the incubatory stage of this disease numerous cutaneous 
tumours form on different parts of the skin, They are 
small, of medium size, or large; the small ones appear 
and disappear suddenly; the larger ones develop in twenty- 
four hours, and disappear in from four to eight days. 

Albumen is present in the urine. 

Prognosis.—The disease usually lasts three or four months, 
but may extend over a period of three years. | 

Contagion.—The disease is readily transmissible by copu- 
lation. Mares take the disease more readily than stallions, 


_ on 
tule 
ey"; 

a? 
he 


e, 


GENERAL DISEASES. 89 


Morbid Anatomy.—The external lesions are always 
present. The sheath is infiltrated with serous exudation, 
giving it a yellowish, hard, homogeneous appearance when 
cut into. The penis, especially the glans, is also infiltrated, 
and the mucous membrane of the vesicule seminalis is red 
or violet coloured, and contains a purulent matter. 

_ The testicles are sometimes enlarged, and contain yellow 

serosity ; they may be atrophied. ‘The uterus contains 
yellow or brown coloured muco-purulent matter; the kid- 
neys are sometimes normal, but sometimes enlarged, and 
contain a white albuminous substance. The membrane 
of the bladder is thickened, ecchymosed, and of a reddish 
brown colour. ‘he muscles and bones are friable; the 
coxo-pubic and femoral ligaments are red, thickened, soft- 
ened, and may be ruptured. 

The synovial fluid of the joints is abundant, cloudy, and 
dark-coloured. The cartilages are soft and yellow. ‘The 
sub-glossal, sub-lumbar, mesenteric glands, and those near 
the genitals are enlarged, yellow or reddish, and often 
contain pus. ‘The spinal cord, especially in the lumbar 
region, 1s sometimes softened. ‘The sub-arachnoid fluid of 
the brain is increased, and according to some the brain 
itself is in a degenerate condition. 

The sacro-sciatic nerves and lumbar plexus are infiltrated 
with serum. 

The sinuses of the head often contain a yellow oily 
matter. The blood is much altered, and is fluid and 
deficient in fibrin. 

Treatment.—M. Trelut gives fibrin, 3xv., as an electuary, 
or in gruel as a drench, in the morning ; also, turpentine, 


3V.—Vil. ss., every second morning with the drench. 


From 3i.—1. ss. of reduced iron, alternated with gr. 
Xv.—xxx. of white arsenic, is given in addition. | Food 
of the most nutritious kind is allowed. M. Trelut after- 


90 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


wards substituted cooked horse-flesh for the fibrin. When 
paralysis set in, cantharidine liniments, followed by mus- 
tard pouitices, were applied to the abdomen, and, when 
there was effusion the pointed firing-iron was applied, 
penetrating as deeply as possible. 

The treatment is continued two or three months. 

Local Treatment.—In stallions, when the disease is con- 
fined to the genital organs, castration has been performed. 

In the mare, emollient injections, followed after by 
astringents, have been recommended. 


PURPURA H/AEMORRHAGICA. 


Definition.—Is an eruptive, non-contagious, intermittent 
fever, characterized by the presence of petechize on the 
mucous membrane, and by elevations of the cutaneous 
tissue. 

Pathology and Etiology.—Purpura usually occurs as a 
sequel to debilitating diseases, viz., influenza, catarrhal 
fever, and strangles; its origin being usually traceable to 
bad ventilation. 

It may also, though rarely, occur as a primary disease, as 
a result of malhygienic conditions, e.g., defective ventilation, 
bad drainage, and poisonous effluvia. 

Purpura is due to an abnormal condition of the blood 
and blood-vessels, resulting from the above deleterious 
influences. 

Symptoms.—Purpura may follow the defervescence of 
mild as well as of severe attacks of such diseases as strangles, 
catarrh, and influenza. Usually the first noticeable 
symptom is the sudden development of local swellings on 
different parts of the body; on the limbs, abdomen, head, 
and especially around the nostrils, mouth, and lower part 
of the face. They sometimes appear in patches ; but when 


GENERAL DISEASES. ee. 


on the limbs, they are often more uniformly diffused. 
They terminate abruptly, not shading insensibly away into 
the surrounding tissues; they are tense, invariably elevated 
above the level of the skin, pit slightly on pressure, and 
are hot and painful. The swellings are due to transudation 
of blood and serum into the subcutaneous tissue. 

Vesicles, or bullz, of about the size of a pea, appear 
upon the lower parts of the limbs, around the hock and 
fetlock joints, and after a time burst and discharge an 
amber-coloured serous fluid, which scalds and excoriates the 
surface of the skin over which it flows. 

Cracks and fissures also appear at the flexures of the 
limbs, and from them issues an unhealthy dark-coloured 
discharge. 

The swellings about the sheath, abdomen, and breast 
often disappear from one part in the earlier stages of the 
disease, and reappear again in another region. 

_ In many cases the face, lips, nostrils, and eyelids become 
very much swollen; the swelling ending abruptly about 
the forehead. 

Death may result from swelling of the head owing to 
interference with respiration, the swollen nostrils causing 
great difficulty in breathing. The animal, also, is prevented 
from feeding, owing to the swelling interfering with the 
movements of the tongue and jaws. 

The skin of the swollen parts often sloughs, and large 
unhealthy sores discharging. fetid matter are formed. The 
lining membrane of the nose becomes more deeply coloured 
and studded with petechie, which gradually coalesce and 
become darker in colour. Eventually, the greater portion 
of the mucous membrane of the septum becomes covered 
over, and there is a discharge of a sero-sanguineous fluid 
from the nose. 

Similar blood extravasations probably simultaneously 


92 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. — 


involve other mucous membranes and the skin in various 
parts of the body. The skin being pigmented, the purplish 
petechial spots are not often seen except in parts where it 
is not coloured. 

The pulse is feeble, often dicrotous and accelerated. 
There is great debility and prostration. The temperature 
generally rises 3° or 4° F, | 

The bowels are at first confined in most instances, but 
purgation is easily induced. The feces may be blood- 
stained, and abdominal pain is frequently present. There 
is impaired appetite through the course of the disease, and 
a hoarse hollow cough is often present. 

The petechial spots in the nose frequently slough and 
leave raw surfaces, from which issues the dark-brown sero- 
sanguineous discharge above mentioned. ‘The tongue is 
sometimes found swollen, with vesicles on the surface. 

The animal moves with difficulty, owing to the stiff and 
painful state of the joints. 

In many cases enteric complications are very severe, and 
in every case sudden extravasations into the mucous mem- 
brane of the alimentary tract may cause death rapidly from 
excess of the internal hemorrhage. Similarly, extravasa- 
tions may occur in connection with other internal struc- 
tures, and, if extensive, may cause sudden and_ fatal 
collapse. 

Prognosis.—Is difficult, owing to the fact that cases in 
which the early symptoms would lead us to expect a 
favourable issue may at length terminate fatally. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The blood is non-coagulable and of 
dark violet tint; the red cells are altered, and the white 
cells are increased in number. , 

The cutaneous swellings and subcutaneous tissues of the 
swollen parts are infiltrated with dark red, feebly coagulable 
exudation. 


. 0 ei, al Bae 
Nea ales ane . 
me eee 


GENERAL DISEASES. 93 


_ Dark spots are found on the thecz of the muscles, and in 
the muscular tissue in various parts. 

The serous membranes show petechial spots and extrava- 
sations. The pleura, endocardium, pericardium, and cere- 
bral and spinal meninges, may all be so affected. The serous 
cavities themselves often contain a gelatinous coloured exud- 
ation. The mucous membranes are black or blackish-green. 
The intestinal membranes frequently present ecchymosis, 

and much infiltration with exudation. The mesenteric 

glands are similarly infiltrated; the liver and spleen are 
congested and friable. The lungs are also usually congested, 
and the trachea and bronchi filled with dark-coloured frothy 
extravasation. 

Treatment.—Attend to the sanitary conditions firstly and 
chiefly. Medicinally, chlorate of potassium and salines, fol- 
lowed by iron preparations and doses of turpentine, may be 
administered. 

Astringents are preferred by some ; ergot of rye, tannin, 
tincture of perchloride of iron, and acetate of lead being 
especially recommended. 

Antiseptics also are worthy of trial, and the beneficial 
action of chlorate of potassium may be due to its antiseptic 
effect. 

If there be much debility, alcohol and vegetable tonics 
should be given. We have found calcium sulphide, in full 
doses, of very great value in the treatment of this disease. 

Ammonium salts are to be avoided. 

The diet should be liberal. 

Locally, the sores should be dressed with antiseptic solu- 
tions. If the head be much swollen, fomentation with warm 
water is very useful. The swellings should not be punc- 
tured. 

If there is much dyspncea from swelling of the mouth or 
nostrils, tracheotomy may be necessary. 


94 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


SCARLATINA—SCARLET FEVER, 


Definition.—A febrile disease, generally accompanying or 
occurring as a sequel to some other general and debilitating 
disorder, and characterized by the eruption of vesicles on 
certain parts of the skin, and by petechial spots on the 
mucous membrane of the nose and mouth, together with 
sore throat and swollen cervical glands. 

Varieties.—Scarlatina Simplex, and Scarlatina Anginosa. 

Pathology and Etiology.—NScarlatina in the horse has 
not very much analogy with the disease of the same name 
In man. 

In the horse it rarely occurs as a primary disease, but 
nearly always is an accompaniment or sequel of some other 
debilitating disease, such as influenza or strangles. It 
usually appears as the fever of the primary affection is 
declining 

Scarlatina, like purpura hemorrhagica, is traceable to 
malhygienic conditions and weakened constitution associ- 
ated with the primary malady. It is probably non-con- 
tagious, and is more prevalent in spring-time than at other 
seasons of the year. 

Symptoms of Scarlatina Simplex.—Usually begins to- 
wards the end of the first week of the primary malady. 
It may begin on the third, fourth, fifth, or sixth day, or 
even later. The febrile symptoms become more severe, and 
there is great prostration, as well as a slightly swollen con- 
dition of the eyelids. The temperature is usually elevated 
about two degrees, and the rise precedes the appearance of 
the rash. 

The ‘rash’ or ‘eruption’ of scarlatina take different forms, 
of which two at least are distinguishable in the horse. 

Firstly, there are developed upon the skin of the face, 


GENERAL DISEASES. 95 


neck, body, and extremities, smooth blotches, over which the 
hair is elevated, though the skin itself is little or not at all 
elevated. 

The second form of rash consists in the eruption in vari- 
ous parts of the body, especially on the inner aspect of the 
thighs, of small rounded vesicles, which eventually desic- 
cate. 

The nasal mucous membrane and the membrane of the 
mouth are covered with scarlet spots, or petechiz, of variable 
size. These spots are especially seen on the nasal septum, 
and on the inner surface of the lips. From the nose there 
is a serous discharge which gradually becomes yellowish- 
brown in colour. 

The limbs are generally swollen, and the animal is stiff. 
In some cases of scarlatina there is no eruption, and minute 
spots on the Schneiderian membrane are all we have to 
guide us in the diagnosis. 

Soreness of the throat is present in most cases. 

Symptoms of Scarlatina Anginosa.—Scarlatina anginosa 
is a severe form of the disease, in which the throat and 
upper air-passages are especially involved. The symptoms 
may at first be those of the simple form, and then gradually 
increase in severity ; or the fever may assume a severe form 
at the outset. In this form the limbs swell rapidly. 

The swellings are hot and painful, and may also appear 
on the face and head. 

The rash and vesicular eruption are more frequently found 
on the limbs than the body, and appear as in the simple form, 
in successive crops, or spread by the coalescence of neigh- 
bouring patches. The petechial spots of the nose and 
mouth are larger and darker in colour, and more likely to 
coalesce than in the simpler form of scarlatina. There is 
great difficulty in breathing and swallowing, and there is 
loud and painful cough. 


96 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The tissues, glands, and other structures in the neigh- 
bourhood of the throat and larynx are swollen, infiltrated, 
and painful. In some protracted cases the bronchial or sub- 
maxillary glands may suppurate. 

The parts of the skin where the eruption is present are 
not distinctly elevated, and in this particular they differ 
from the localised swellings of purpura hemorrhagica. 

The pulse is rapid, varying from 60 or 70 in mild cases, to 
100 or more in severer attacks ; it is weak, of small volume, 
and frequently dicrotous, especially in the later stages. 

The respirations are accelerated, especially when the 
lungs are congested. 

(Edematous swellings may suddenly appear on the in- 
ferior parts of the abdomen and chest, but they are not of 
constant occurrence. ‘There is a discharge of serous fluid 
from the nose, which often becomes yellowish-brown, and in 
rare cases sanguineous. 

The bowels are usually confined. 

The fever, when uncomplicated, generally declines in six 
to eight days ; not suddenly, but by oscillations. 

During the rash and infiltration of the structures around 
the throat the fever shows no abatement. 

After the fever, and decline of the rash, there is shedding 
of the hair where exudation from the vesicles has occurred, 
and desquamation of the epidermis over the body. Great 
debility often remains after active symptoms have disap- 
peared, and there is great weakness of the heart, and ten- 
dency to effusion into the pleurse and pericardial sac. 

Scarlatina is sometimes followed by inflammation of a 
rheumatic character. 

Prognosis.—Is very uncertain. If the swelling in the 
throat increases, and the breathing becomes difficult from 
implication of the upper air-passages, or congestion of the 
lungs, the prognosis is very grave. 


a «| 


GENERAL DISEASES. 97 


Morbid Anatomy.—The blood is darker, and is not so 
coagulable as in the healthy condition. The membranes 
most marked by petechial extravasations are those of the 
nose and mouth, and those of the heart and abdomen. 

The connective tissue in many parts of the body has a 
reddish or rusty tinge. 

The mucous and submucous tissue of the throat, as well 
as the glands in the neighbourhood, are swollen and in- 
filtrated with exudation. 

Diagnosis.—Scarlatina may be confounded with purpura 
heenarhagica, erysipelas, and eczema. 

The petechiz in scarlatina are minute spots which may 
form patches by coalescing together, and they are scarlet in 
colour. In purpura they are of a dark purple hue. Sore 
throat is never absent in scarlatina, and but rarely present 
(unless it be a symptom of previous disease) in purpura. 

‘ Also in scarlatina the swellings are at first in the form of 
lumps, whereas in purpura they show an even surface, occu- 
pying the face as a whole, or the limbs, and terminate 
abruptly above, as if a cord had been tightly drawn around 
the part’ (Williams). 

In scarlatina there is often swelling, and sometimes sup- 
puration of the glands (submaxillary and bronchial glands 
especially) ; whereas in purpura this does not occur. Again, 
the disposition to sloughing of various parts of the body is 
characteristic of purpura. 

Treatment.—Place the animal in a warm well-ventilated 
loose box. ‘The food should be laxative and nutritious, 
and doses of nitrate or chlorate of potassium, or sulphite of 
sodium, may be administered in the drinking-water. This 
treatment will suffice for mild cases. 

In the more severe forms, the throat should be fomented 


with warm water, and hot poultices should be applied and 
7 


98 | MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


renewed frequently. Hot-water vapour, medicated by the 
addition of carbolic acid, should be used for inhalation. 

When the breathing is very difficult, and accompanied by 
a loud roaring noise, tracheotomy is In some cases necessary 
in order to avert suffocation. Liquor ammoniz acetatis, 
nitric ether, and camphor, may be administered three times 
daily, in the form of a drench, and a gentle laxative may be 
given if necessary. If the throat be much swollen and 
deglutition be very difficult, the remedies mentioned should 
be given in form of enemas. 

As the pyrexial symptoms abate, quinine and other vege- 
table tonics and sulphate of iron may advantageously be 
given twice or three times daily. 

When suppuration is detected, the abscess should be 
opened. The external swellings on the limbs should not 
be interfered with. 

During convalescence, careful attention should be paid to 
the dieting. The food should be of the most nutritious kind, 
but in moderate quantity at first, until the digestive organs 
regain vigour. Moderate exercise should be enjoined as the 
animal regains strength. 


RABIES. 


Definition.— Rabies is an infective febrile disease, origin- 
ating in the canine and less frequently in the feline race, and 
occurring in the horse as the result of a bite of some rabid 
animal. ‘The specific virus is transmitted through the 
saliva of the rabid creature; and the disease is characterized 
by pain in the part bitten, great excitement, irritability, a 
disposition to bite, clonic spasms, prostration, and death. 

Etiology.—Rabies is said by many to arise spontaneously 
in canine and feline animals, but this is doubtful. It 


' 


BIB a 


ee \ 
usually occurs in the horse as the result of the bite of a “A Io 
dog. Whether it can be transmitted from an infe ted. ltwA ise 
horse to a healthy one by biting is uncertain, but probablP™siscsceses 
it can. 

The poison is especially virulent in the saliva. Recently 
M. Pasteur has demonstrated the existence of a special 
vegetable parasite in the blood of rabid animals, and to the 
presence of this germ and its multiplication in the body he 
attributes this infective disease, 

Incubation.—In the horse, the period of incubation varies 
from two weeks to forty days. 

Symptoms.— Begin with great restlessness, excitability, 
and distress. In some cases there is first observed a lack 
of power over some of the voluntary muscles, especially 
those of the hind extremities, or some amount of tonic 
contraction in the muscles of the back or neck. The 
excitability is soon much increased, the animal becomes 
frantic, and attempts in his fury to destroy everything 
_ within his reach. In some instances he bites savagely at 

the seat of the 1 injury. 

The temperature is raised 9 or 3°; the pulse is accele- 
rated, its volume is increased, and thie artery is firm and 

_ hard; the respirations are accelerated, and the appetite is 
lost ; the animal is acutely sensitive to the slightest stimuli. 

A flash of light or a sudden noise will bring on a paroxysm 

of fury. 

There are convulsive twitchings of the superficial muscles ; 
difficulty in swallowing; a characteristic hoarse cough ; 
abundant flow of saliva from the mouth; paralysis of the 
posterior extremities may gradually supervene. The remis- 
sions and paroxysms in the horse are not so marked a 
feature as in the dog. In the horse, the remissions are of 
much shorter duration, and the fits of violence are more 
aggravated and prolonged than in the latter animal. As 
7—2 


GENERAL DISEASES. 


100 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


the disease progresses the intervals become still less, until 
at ‘length the state of fury becomes permanent, and the 
horse, prostrated, dies in convulsions on the second, third, 
or fourth day. 

Morbid Anatomy.—In most cases there are general con- 
gestions and inflammations in connection with nearly every 
organ and structure of the body. In the abdomen, ecchy- 
moses are found on the serous membranes, the liver and 
spleen are engorged and abnormally friable, and there are 
extravasations throughout the alimentary canal; the lungs 
are congested ; the small air-tubes are filled with mucus; 
the heart shows ecchymoses under the endocardium, and 
may contain fibrinous clots. There is hyperzemia of the 
nerve-centres and nerve-trunks, and patchy congestion of the 
spinal cord and brain, especially at the base and choroid 
plexus; and there may be effusion into the sub-arachnoid 
space and ventricles of the cerebrum. : 

Microscopical examination of the nerve-centres in dogs 
shows capillary thrombosis and other changes, especially 
around that portion of the floor of the fourth ventricle 
occupied by the respiratory centre. 

The action of the virus appears at first to involve espe- 
cially the medulla oblongata and the pneumogastric nerves ; 
thus the difficulty in swallowing and the convulsions of the 
respiratory muscles are accounted for. 

Treatment.— When the disease has set in, treatment is of 
no avail, and it is advisable to shoot the animal. 

Bites by rabid animals should be treated at once. If 
possible, the tissue around the injury should be excised ; 
if the wound be superficial, the application of caustics will 
be sufficient ; if it be deep, the parts must be first excised, 
and then cauterized or treated by caustics, such as nitrate 
of silver, caustic potash, or carbolic acid. 


a 


ah es | i) allie 
pill 
ae 
a“ 4 Z 


GENERAL DISEASES. 101 


RHEUMATISM. 


Varieties.—Acute, Chronic, and Muscular Rheumatism. 
ACUTE RHEUMATISM. —Definition.—Is a constitu- 
* tional fever characterized by the special tendency to inflam- 
mation of certain structures, viz.: the articulations, the 
coverings of the tendons and muscles, the pericardium and 
endocardium. ‘These inflammations have a tendency to dis- 
appear from one part and to reappear in another, and are 
called metastatic. | | 
Nature of the Disease.—Kheumatism is a general disease, 
the proximate cause of which has been maintained to be a 
poisonous substance circulating in the blood. This poison 
is Stated to be lactic, or some other acid. No excess, how- 
ever, of any such acid has yet been detected in the blood. 
Etiology.—Lciting causes of rheumatism are: exposure 
to cold and wet, sudden chills, damp and malhygienic 
conditions. Predisposing causes: a constitutional tendency 
to rheumatism, or ‘rheumatic diathesis,’ as it is termed. 
Symptoms.—The local symptoms may be preceded by 
febrile disturbance. 
There is sudden and severe lameness, with or without 
swelling of one or more joints, most commonly the stifle 
and fetlock, less commonly of the hock and knee. On 
manipulation the affected joints are found to be excessively 
tender. The joints may be affected in pairs—for example, 
the two hock joints or the two stifles may be simultaneously 
involved, and the lameness is thus symmetrical. The tem- 
perature is elevated, and may reach as high as 104°-106° F. 
The pulse is accelerated, firm, and full; the urine is high- 
coloured, scanty, acid or neutral in reaction, and loaded with 
_hippurates and hippuric acid; the bowels are constipated. 
In most acute cases the heart is affected. If the inflam- 


102 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


mation be slight, the symptoms of cardiac mischief may 
pass unobserved. If, however, there be much pericardial 
effusion, and inflammation of the heart-muscle itself, of the 
endocardium and valvular structures, very severe sym- 
ptoms show themselves. There will be great tenderness 
over the region of the heart, and the sounds will be altered 
in character (vide ‘Cardiac Diseases’). The pain and swell- 
ings of the joints frequently subside in one extremity quite 
suddenly, and then reappear in another; this ‘ metastasis,’ 
or changing of the seat of inflammation, is a marked feature 
of rheumatism. 

Sometimes the inflammation of the joints does not abate 
and suppuration ensues. In these cases the febrile symptoms 
become more severe and the joint is destroyed. 

Complications.—Inflammation of the pericardium and 
endocardium ought, perhaps, to be regarded as part of the 
acute rheumatic inflammation as much as the inflammation 
of the joints themselves. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Death in acute rheumatism is mostly 
due to cardiac disease, and corresponding lesions are found 
accordingly. The joints and the structures around them 
will be found in different conditions of pathological change, 
varying with the intensity of the inflammation and its 
duration. 

Treatment.—A mild aperient should be given in all 
cases. A small dose of aloes or a saline purgative may be 
selected, and the bowels should be kept open by regulation 
of diet or appropriate remedies. ‘The abstraction of blood 
is notto berecommended. Bicarbonate of potassium should 
be given in full doses three or four times daily with the 
spirit of nitric ether. If the temperature be high, salicylate 
of sodium given three times daily for a day or two in full 
doses proves very effectual in reducing it. Colchicum, in 
the form of a tincture or the wine, and liquor ammonize 


GENERAL DISEASES, 103 


acetatis are also useful remedies. Locally, hot fomenta- 
tions to the joints, and anodyne lotions of opium, aconite 
or belladonna afford much relief. In the later stages, if the 
joint affections show little improvement, stimulating lini- 
ments may be applied. In some cases, where these are in- 
effectual, vesication with some preparation of cantharides is 
of service in subduing the inflammation and the consequent 
pain and tenderness. 

CHRONIC RHEUMATISM may follow acute rheu- 
matism, or may occur as an independent affection. 

This form may exhibit no pyrexial symptoms whatever. 
There is less tendency to metastasis of inflammation or to 
implication of the cardiac structures than in acute rheu- 
matism. 

The inflammation of the joints is of a more persistent 
character, and more frequently leads to ulceration of the 
cartilages, eburnation of the bones and the formation of 
osteophytes than is the case in the acute form. In chronic 
rheumatism the bones in various parts are subject to various 
pathological changes. Bony excrescenees may form on the 
spinal column, on the bones of the pelvis, and on the synovial 
membranes of the joints. The joints may, or may not, be 
enlarged. Anchylosis of the joints, ulceration of the 
articular cartilages, and eburnation of the extremities of 
the bones, may often be met with, and various distortions in 
different parts may result. 

Treatment.— When the disease is chronic ae the first, 
occasional laxatives, bicarbonate of potassium and iodide of 
potassium, may be administered ; tonics also may be given 
in addition. Locally, stimulating liniments are useful. 
When the disease occurs as a sequel to the acute form, 
iodide and bicarbonate of potassium, and quinine and other 
remedies may be tried. Locally it is sometimes advisable 
to apply the actual cautery. 


104 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


MUSCULAR RHEUMATISM.—The muscles and their 
thecze are liable to a painful affection, which is due to the 
same causes as other forms of rheumatic inflammation, wet 
and cold, damp, fatigue. The muscles most commonly 
involved in the horse are the lumbar and gluteal muscles, 
and also those of the neck, chest, and shoulder. Generally 
there is but little constitutional disturbance, though febrile 
symptoms may be manifested. specially is this the case 
when the large lumbar and gluteal muscles are involved, 
when the pulse is accelerated. The temperature is elevated, 
and the animal moves with difficulty. The back is elevated, 
and the affected muscles are painful and tender. 

Treatment.—Internally, the same drugs may be pre- 
scribed as in acute articular rheumatism, and, in addition, 
potassium bromide is a valuable remedy. In the chronic - 
forms tonics are very beneficial. Locally, anodyne and 
stimulating liniments of camphor, belladonna, opium, 
aconite, with ammonia and turpentine afford much relief. 


SCROFULA AND TUBERCULOSIS. 


Tuberculosis.—Is an infective disease, characterized by the 
formation of small nodular masses, called ‘tubercles,’ and is 
due to the presence and multiplication of the Bacillus Tuber- 
culosis in the blood and tissues. The lesions are more or 
less generally distributed, as in acute general tuberculosis, or 
they are limited to small areas, as in local tuberculosis. 
Tubercles are of two kinds, grey and yellow. 

Grey, or ‘miliary’ tubercles, or ‘grey granulations,’ are 
ereyish semi-translucent rounded bodies, varying from — 
minute points to the size of a pin-head, or larger. Yellow 
tubercles are later stages of the grey variety. They are 
generally larger, and may reach the size of a chestnut, or 
even larger, and they are softer. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 105 


Fatty degeneration, commencing in the central portions, 
is the main cause of the difference between the two. 

Scrofula.—Is a constitutional condition, characterized by 
a great susceptibility of certain tissues to become the seat 
of chronic inflammation, the products of which have but 
little tendency to become absorbed, but rather tend to 
infiltrate and accumulate in the tissues. 

They thus interfere with the circulation, and so lead to 
retrogressive and caseous changes; and as there is but 
little tendency to the formation of fresh blood-vessels, there 
is no organization of the new growth. These changes are 
in a great degree to be attributed to the low condition of 
vitality of the tissues, and to the peculiar character of the 
inflammatory products. 

Relation of Scrofula to Tubercle.—Owing to the similar 
microscopical appearances of scrofulous and tuberculous 
lesions, as well as to the presence of the Bacillus Tubercu- 
losis, in what appear to be simply scrofulous products, 
these two affections have been regarded as identical, and 
scrofula has been looked upon as not merely due to in- 
herited or acquired liability to simple chronic inflamma- 
tions. 

Now, although tubercular changes are especially liable to 
occur in scrofulous patients, and though the bacilli may be 
found in scrofulous lesions, yet the latter may be regarded 
merely as simple chronic inflammations, affording a suit- 
able soil for the growth of the germ. 

Scrofula and Tuberculosis, though of frequent occur- 
rence in cattle, are not commonly met with among horses. 
In the localized form, tubercle in the horse is said to occur 
in the lungs, pleura, and glands of the abdominal cavity ; 
and many cases of well-pronounced arthritic disease in 
young horses are regarded as decidedly scrofulous in nature 
by Professor Robertson. This form of arthritic disease is 


106 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


peculiarly an affection of the higher-bred horses, and is due 
to inherited taint, frequently associated with malhygienic 
conditions and improper management. It is attended with 
mal-assimilation of food; and in its treatment special care 
must be taken to correct the hygienic and dietetic errors. 
If one of the affected joints be examined, the synovial 
membrane will be found to be thickened and changed, the 
joint itself is distended with fluid, and the cartilages and 
ends of the bones will be found in a condition of retrogres- 
sive change. 


LYMPHANGITIS. 


Synonyms.—‘ Weed;’ inflammatory cedema. 

Definition.—A constitutional affection, attended with 
inflammation, commencing in the lymphatic glands and 
spreading to the absorbents and blood-vessels of one of the 
limbs, in most cases a hind one, which becomes swoilen and 
cedematous. In some cases both hind limbs are affected, 
and, in rare instances, a fore-limb is the seat of the disease. 
The commonest seat, however, is the left hind-leg. 

Nature of the Disease.—‘ Weed’ is to be regarded as a 
general disturbance of function, especially associated with 
mal-assimilation and impaired digestion. It is especially a 
disease of the heavy draught-horses of sluggish lymphatic 
temperament, and is particularly common among certain 
kinds of agricultural horses. 

An attack renders the animal more subject to a recur- 
rence of the disorder; and in many cases one seizure succeeds 
another periodically, until the limb assumes a permanently 
enlarged condition, termed ‘ elephantiasis.’ 

Etiology.—Predisposing cause: Lymphatic or sluggish 
temperament, generally inherited. 

Exciting Causes: Foremost among the exciting causes is 
feeding beyond the requirements of healthy nutrition. Ces- 


GENERAL DISEASES. 107 


sation or diminution of work suddenly in well-fed animals 
is also a common cause, as is seen in frequent occurrence of 
this disorder among heavy draught-horses after a Sunday’s 
rest. ‘The disease has in consequence been named the 
‘Mcnday-morning disease.’ 

Sudden or prolonged exposure of baie to cold or damp 
will in many cases bring on an attack by suddenly disturb- 
ing the digestive and assimilative functions ; and indeed 
any sudden change in the work or habits of the animal 
may bring on an attack. 

Lymphangitis may also occur as the result of a local 
inflammation of the lymphatics of the limbs, or other parts 
of the body, as the result of an injury. In the limbs, an 
injury to the foot, in shoeing, for example, may result in an 
attack of the lower portion of the limb. This local form 
does not commence above in the brachial or inguinal 
glands, as in the general disorder, but spreads upwards 
along the lymphatic vessels. 

Symptoms.—The local inflammation of the limbs is 
frequently preceded by a rigor, which may last during 
some hours; and the severity of the disease is shown as a 
rule by the intensity and duration of this shivering fit. 

There is restlessness and lameness at an early stage; and 
after the rigor has passed, the hot stage follows. The 
fever is of the sthenic type, and passes quickly through its 
various stages; The pulse is raised to 70, 90, or 100 
beats per minute, and it is hard, full, and firm. The re- 
Spirations, though not increased in mild cases, are much 
accelerated in severe attacks, and sweats bedew the body. 
The visible mucous membranes are congested ; the bowels 
are constipated ; the urine is dark-coloured and of high 
_ specific gravity. The temperature is raised 2°5° to 3°5° F.; 
_ the appetite is lost, and there is great thirst and rest- 
lessness. : 


108 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The swelling and tenderness are first noticed in the 
lymphatics of the inguinal or brachial region, and the 
swelling is oedematous, firmish, and slightly irregular. It 
feels hot, is very tender, and gradually extends down. 
wards, firstly on the inner side of the thigh, but gradually 
encircling the whole of the limb. The pain and lameness 
increase until the crisis of the fever is reached, and then 
remain stationary for a day or two. In severe cases a 
serous exudation occurs over the inner surface of the limb 
in the course of the vessels, particularly at the flexures of 
the joints. 

The general and local symptoms continue to increase in 
severity for twenty-four to forty-eight hours, and then, 
remaining stationary, are followed in a day or two by 
defervescence of the fever, and gradual absorption of the 
local extravasations slowly reduces the swelling. 

Lymphangitis is very prone to recur, and with each fresh 
attack there is less chance of complete recovery, for in 
many cases the connective-tissue of the limb becomes 
hypertrophied and indurated. ‘This condition becomes 
permanently established, and the entire bulk of the limb 
is augmented, the hair is removed in patches, and the skin 
also becomes hypertrophied and indurated. From the 


organized fibroid state of the connective-tissue, this condi- . 


tion has been termed ‘ Elephantiasis Fibroma,’ or ‘ Ele- 
phantiasis.’ 

Sometimes, after the disappearance of the fever of a, first 
or second attack, abscesses may be formed on the inner 


aspect of the limb. ‘They are generally confined to the 


subcutaneous connective-tissues. , 
Prognosis.—The great majority of cases recover com- 
pletely, but the fibroid condition may be left as a sequel. 
Complications.—Are rare; there may be pneumonia or 
enteric complications. 


GENERAL DISEASES. 109 


Morbid Anatomy.—There is general swelling of the 
whole limb, the cdema being especially marked above. 
The subcutaneous tissue and fascia are infiltrated with a 
yellow coloured lymph, and the tissue itself is hypertrophied 
and indurated. Similarly the connective tissue among the 
deeper structures is changed. The lymphatic glands in 
the affected region are swollen, infiltrated, and hyper- 
trophied. In chronic cases they are firm and indurated ; 
in recent ones they may be soft and broken down, forming 
small abscesses. 

Occasionally the mesenteric glands are enlarged and 
infiltrated with a gelatinous straw-coloured exudation, and 
the abdominal cavity may contain a similarly coloured fluid. 

In elephantiasis the skin is thickened, and there is 
organization of the effused matter. The lymphatic glands 
in these old standing cases may be calcareous. 

Treatment.—DBleeding from the jugular vein is generally 
practised in the early stages, though this treatment is not 
recommended by Professor Williams. Purgatives should 
be administered in moderate doses, but excess of purgation 
is to be avoided. Aloes in doses of two to four drachms 
may be given, or salines may be used. 

Febrifuges are of great benefit in the early stages. A 
draught of liquor of acetate of ammonia, bicarbonate of 
_ potash, nitric ether, and 5 minims of Fleming’s tincture of 
aconite may be administered every four hours. After the 
purgative has been given, diuretics, to which half a drachm 
of calomel may be added in cases which have not followed 
some debilitating disease, may be administered once daily in 
addition. ‘Tincture of colchicum is recommended by some. 
The affected limb should be fomented with warm water, 
and if the pain is severe, tincture of opium may be added 
to the water, or it may be applied with other ancdynes as 
a lotion after each fomentation. 


110 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The diet should be carefully attended to. In the early 
stages a restricted and cooling diet should be ordered, but 
in the later stages, when debility supervenes, the diet 
should be nutritious and well regulated, and the limb 
should be supported by bandages applied pretty firmly. 

Where the limb is much thickened, iodide of potassium 
or tincture of iodine may be given internally, and the 
ointment of iodine may be used externally, and continued 
while the animal is at work. 


BURSATEE. 


Definition.—-Bursatee is a disease probably due to a 
vegetable parasite belonging to the moulds or hypho- 
mycetes, characterized by peculiar slow structural changes 
in external wounds, in the subcutaneous tissue, or in 
internal organs, or in all these situations. 

Distribution.—Bursatee is an Indian disease probably 
peculiar to the horse, deriving its name from ‘ Bursat,’ 
which signifies ‘rain,’ from the association of this malady 
with the rainy season. But probably it is most frequent in 
the time just preceding the wet season. It occurs through- 
out the Indian Empire, especially, however, in the northern 
parts, and is more commonly met with on the sa than 
in elevated situations. 

Etiology and Nature.—Bursatee is in all probability due 
to a special fungoid growth, and in the Veterinary Journal 
of July, 1884, Mr. F. Smith says that he has found a mould 
fungus in every fresh specimen of the sore which he has 
examined. The filaments of the no or t hyphe, as they 


FOO0O 


and of eee length. He has not observed any spores. In 
the propagation of bursatee, flies have been asserted to play 
&@ prominent part, and water also is said to be a means of 
disseminating the disease. The lesions found in bursatee 


GENERAL DISEASES. ie a: 


have been compared with cancerous growths, but there 
appears to be but little analogy between them. Mal- 
hygienic conditions appear to favour the development of the 
disease, and it is said to be commoner in stabled animals. 
Whether bursatee can be transmitted from parent to 
offspring is an unsettled question. Bursatee is probably 
non-contagious. 

Symptoms.—The special feature of bursatee is the appear- 
ance of peculiar growths termed ‘kunkurs.’* These are 
mainly found in those situations which, from their position, 
are most liable to be the seat of wounds from any cause. 
The subcutaneous tumours are first noticed as soft nodu- 
lated swellings. In about eight or ten days from their 
first appearance they become hardened, until they become 
as firm as fibroid tumours. After a variable period the 
tumour ulcerates, and a bursatee sore or ulcer results. The 
sore is indolent, and has a papillated appearance, and dis- 
charges a small quantity of pus. The edges of the ulcer 
are slightly raised and undermined, and on the floor are 
scattered little hardened eminences called kunkurs, which 
may be squeezed out. ‘The sores have but little tendency 
to spread, though in some cases they do increase in size, and 
neighbouring sores thus become confluent. 

The reparative material is also of the nature of the 
kunkurous growth, and the cicatrix formed in healing is 
of a greyish colour. 

Ulceration and cicatrization may go on together in 
different parts of the sore, and the whole scab may be 
thrown off, forming an unhealthy ulcerated surface, or it 
may be fissured, and discharge a grumous matter. The 
inner canthus of the eye is often the seat of the affection, and 
from thence it may cover a considerable area of the face ; 


* Kunkur is the native term for a stone used in India for economic 
purposes. 


112 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


probably the irritation of the tears sets up a condition 
suitable to the growth of the fungus. The angles of the 
mouth are also frequently affected, and the bit may cause 
the original injury, which afterwards takes on a bursatee 
form. The legs, from the knee downwards, especially the 
fetlocks and coronets, are often affected, and in these 
situations the growth has a tendency to assume more the 
character of bone than in other parts. The vagina, urethra, 
glans penis and prepuce are also frequently affected. The 
site of an old sore always affords a soil for the peculiar 
growth in affected animals, and fresh wounds similarly 
undergo the above changes. Cicatrization rarely or never 
occurs spontaneously, and with the return of the season 
there is great probability of recurrence of the disease on 
some other part of the body. A cicatrice, if external, may 
lead to impairment of function of the parts involved. The 
general condition varies in bursatee, but there is usually 
more or less debility. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The lesions of bursatee are found in 
external wounds, in subcutaneous tissues, and in internal 
organs, or in two or all three of these situations. They 
may be found in the internal organs of animals which have 
shown no signs of the disease during life. In size, the 
growths vary from a millet seed to a filbert nut. In the 
early stages, microscopical examination shows them to be 
composed of two kinds of cells. One kind of cells have a 
tendency to elongate into fibres, the other have abundant 
nuclei and nucleoli. In the next stage the growths are 


firmer ; the section is yellowish white. Many of the more — 


stable and less active cells have become converted into 
fibrils, while the other cells, dispersed among them, are of 
a brownish colour. 

This is the stage of soft kunkur. In a still later stage, 
the tissue is harder, and the greater part of it is in a con- 


- — 


GENERAL DISEASES. 113 


dition of calcareous metamorphosis. In the internal organs, 
the kunkurous growth has been observed to have a fibrous 
capsule. The growths have been found in the liver, spleen, 
mesenteric glands, cecum, lungs, pleura and bronchial 
glands, salivary glands, and submucous tissues of the 
urethra, and in other situations. 

Treatment.—Attention to the hygienic conditions and 
nutritious diet are of first importance. ‘Tonics may be given 
from the onset of the disease. The sores should be dressed 
with antiseptic lotions of carbolic or sulphurous acid, or 
eucalyptus, etc. All vegetating growths and masses of 
kunkur should be excised or removed by the actual cautery. 
It is essential that the whole of the growths should be 
excised, as otherwise the growth will recur. After excision 
the wound may be dressed with lunar caustic or sulphate of 
copper in order to stimulate the healing process. 


DIABETES. 


Varieties.—(1) Diabetes insipidus, or polyuria or hy- 
druria. 

(2) Diabetes mellitus. 

Definition.— Diabetes is a diseased condition accompanied 
by excessive secretion of urine, great thirst, emaciation, and 
debility, and in the second variety characterized by the 
presence of grape sugar or glucose in greater or less amount 
in the urine. 

DIABETES INSIPIDUS—Nature of Disease.— Diabetes 
insipidus is the commoner of the two forms of diabetes in 
the horse, and is regarded by some merely as a fanctional 
disease of the kidneys. It is, however, rather to be looked 
upon as a general affection due to some disordered condition 
of the assimilative processes. 

This disease is so common among horses under certain 

8 


114 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. | 


d 


conditions, that although usually a sporadic affection, it 
occasionally develops truly enzootic characters (Robertson). 

Etiology.—It is probably caused by disordered condition 
of the vaso-motor centres, leading to dilation of the renal 
vessels, and thus causing polyuria. The disordered innerva- 
tion is probably due to defective assimilation, brought about 
by improper diet or by causes peculiar to the locality. 

Mouldy hay, musty, damp, or kiln-dried oats, and bad 
corn, are fertile sources of the disease. Boiled food is also 
sometimes a cause of diabetes insipidus. In some cases 
the disease may come on in the absence of such causes, and 
it is then of a most severe type, and usually due to mal- 
assimilation of food and other causes, such as prolonged 
exertion and exposure to cold. 

During convalescence from some debilitating diseases, 
even slight dietetic errors may induce polyuria. 

Symptoms.—Excessive urination, great thirst, anorexia 
or depraved appetite, are the diagnostic symptoms. The 
mouth has a sour, unpleasant odour, and the skin is scurfy. 
The pulse varies in number, but the volume is diminished 
and the tone deficient. The visible mucous membranes are 
pale, and the animal is enfeebled and perspires on slight 
exertion. The urine voided is pale, of low specific gravity, 
from 1002 to 1003, but the total amount of solids is pro- 
bably not diminished. According to Lassaigne, it contains 
free acetic acid, and alkaline carbonates are absent. When 
this form of diabetes follows some debilitating disease, the 
urine is of higher specific gravity, and the debility and 
wasting are more marked. 

When the disease continues unchecked, the animal 
gradually loses strength, becomes emaciated, and structural 
-changes follow in many organs. Dropsical effusions into the 
serous cavities and the lax connective-tissues are then of 
common occurrence. 


\ 


GENERAL DISEASES. 115 


Morbid Anatomy.—General pallor and loss of tonicity of 
the muscles, and soft flabby condition of the large glands 
of the abdomen, are noticed. In the brain and spinal 
cord there may be serous effusion into the sub-arachnoid 
spaces, or infiltration of the membranes with a gelatinous 
matter. 

Treatment.—-Change and careful regulation of the diet 
are essential. At first the food should be restricted to hay 


and mashes, and the animal should be rested and carefully 


attended to for a few days. 

Mild aperients should be given, and bicarbonate of soda 
or potash allowed freely in the drinking-water. The alkaline 
salt is especially called for when the horse exhibits a depraved. 
appetite by eating the mortar or licking the walls. 

Iodine and iodide of potassium are the most valuable of 
internal remedies, and, indeed, are regarded as specifics. 
The compound tincture of iodine may be prescribed, or 
iodide of potassium may be given in the drinking-water 
in two-drachm doses twice daily. Vegetable tonics may 
also be administered. | 

Other remedies often used are sulphate and ak ee 
of iron, and arsenic in the form of Fowler’s solution. 

DIABETES MELLITUS.—This disease is rarely met 


with in the horse, and its pathology is very obscure. 


Etiology.—The glycogenic activity of the liver appears to 
be increased in this: disease, and thus more glycogen is 


converted into glucose and thrown into the circulation than 


can be used in the economy. The surplus is thus excreted 
by the kidneys. Whether this increased functional activity 
is due to direct nervous influence on the hepatic cells, or 
whether it arises from vaso-motor disturbance producing 
dilation of the hepatic arteries, or lastly, whether it be in 
some cases due to the former, and in other cases to the 
latter, is uncertain. 
S—2 


116 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Symptoms.—There is excessive elimination of urine, in- 
digestion, thirst, and the various other symptoms of polyuria 
are present. The urine hasa fragrant smell, and is of higher 
specific gravity, and when tested is found to contain glucose 
or grape-sugar. It may be tested for by Trommer’s test, or 
by using Pavy’s test pellets, now specially manufactured for 
the purpose. The fermentation test may also be applied.* 

Treatment.—The diet should be nourishing, and as nearly 
as possible devoid of purely saccharine or starchy matter. 
Opium or codeia, one of its alkaloids, may be given twice 
daily. Mineral acids, iron salts, and astringents, as gallic 
acid, are also recommended. 


AZOTURIA. 


Definition. —Is a diseased condition characterized by tonic 
or clonic spasms of the large muscles of the posterior part 
of the body and of the limbs, and by the elimination of 
nitrogenous, darkly coloured urine of high specific gravity. 

Nature of the Disease.—Azoturia is the result of an over- 
supply or excess of proteid material in the system. 

The muscular elements are probably more involved than 
the other structures of the body, and the condition of the 
urine is the result of the pathological changes which have 
taken place. 

The phenomena of the disease are intimately associated 
with mal-nutrition, and may originate from this cause, or 
also from a disordered condition of the nerve-centres, or 
from both causes. 

Etiology.—The primary cause of azoturia is dietetic. The 
disease may attack animals out at grass, and it is especially 
apt to follow periods of idleness preceded by active work. 
It does not so much occur during the actual rest as when 


* For particulars as to examination of the urine, see ‘ Urine in 
Health and Disease.’ 


oe 


GENERAL DISEASES. Lit 


the animal again resumes work. ‘Tares, vetches, and other 
leguminous vegetables, are especially apt to induce this 
serious malady. Horses fed with materials rich in proteids 
during a state of rest are the most subject to attack. It 
is most common during autumn, and it has been observed 
to be of more frequent occurrence among mares than among 
geldings. 

This is especially the case during the cestrum, when the 
excitability of mares is increased. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of azoturia come on suddenly, 
without any previous warning or indication of disease. 
Horses may be attacked when in the stable, or, as more 
commonly occurs, when they have travelled a short distance 
after a period of rest. 

In the latter case they become suddenly lame, or have 
such difficulty in moving the limbs, generally the hind ones, 
that they are scarcely able to move. In some cases they 
are, as it were, struck down suddenly from loss of motor 
power in the posterior extremities. In other instances 
the attack is not so sudden ; the animal becomes very rest- 
less, perspires freely, and shows a disposition to lie down, 

and very shortly the characteristic symptoms appear, if not 
already present. There are tremors and violent spasmodic 
twitchings of the large muscles of the loins and gluteal 
muscles, ending in tonic contraction or more or less total 
loss of power. The perspiration may be excessive. The 
urine discharged is high-coloured, thick, and of a brownish 
tint. The specific gravity is always much increased, and 
may reach 1185 or even more, and is highest during the 
first few hours after the attack. It often gradually 
diminishes afterwards. 

The pulse varies from 60 to 80 beats per minute, and is 
generally weak, though in some cases, on the contrary, it is 
strong. 


4 


118 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The temperature varies from 102° to 104-5* or even higher. 

The bowels may be regular, and in slight attacks the 
appetite is not impaired. In severe cases the animal lies 
prostrate, generally unable to rise ; refuses to eat or drink ; 
struggles violently in his attempts to raise himself, and partial 
coma may then supervene. ‘There is also in such instances 
much congestion of the conjunctive. While the animal 
remains thus prostrate, there are periodical strainings and 
ejections of small quantities of urine, or there may be 
constant involuntary dribblings. 

The urine, if carefully examined as soon as possible after 
being voided, will be found to be loaded with urea. Indeed, 
so abundant is this product, that if nitric acid be added to 
a portion of urine in a vessel, the whole becomes almost 
solid, from the formation of crystals of nitrate of urea. 
Albumen is not generally found, though in some cases 
the solidification is in part due to the coagulation of a small 
amount present. 

The crystals of urea-nitrate appear as mica-like rhomboid 
scales of a brownish colour, and fall to the bottom of the 
vessel. At first the addition of the acid causes effervescence, 
from the presence of ammonium carbonate in the alkaline 
urine, but after the effervescence is over, urea is readily 
precipitated. | 

If the serum of the blood be examined, crystals of nitrate 
of urea may be formed by extracting the urea from the 
serum and adding a few drops of nitric acid. 

Prognosis.—Is very serious in the sudden cases. In some 
instances the animal is struck down, struggles violently for 
a few hours, and then becomes comatose and dies. 

In other instances, again, the severe symptoms abate ; 
put the animal does not regain the use of its limbs, and 
~ although it may eat well and be perfectly conscious, it is 
unable to rise, and eventually dies from some complication, 


GENERAL DISEASES. 119 


In favourable cases the urine gradually becomes normal, 
the spasms gradually lessen in severity, the power of 
movement returns, and in a few days the animal is con- 
valescent. 

In other cases for a long time the loss of power in certain 
muscles remains. Not in all cases is there recovery when 
the urine becomes normal, for the cerebral complications 
may still continue, and death ensue in consequence. 

Diagnosis.—The only diseases which are likely to be 
confounded with azoturia are anthrax and cerebro-spinal 
meningitis. 

Morbid Anatomy.—There is general congestion through- 
out the body, especially in the glands of the abdomen. 
The bladder contains thick brownish fluid, and its lining 
membrane is similarly stained. The nerve-centres may be 
more or less hyperemic, and the blood is found to be dark 
and semi-fluid. 

Treatment.—The animal should be placed in a weil- 
ventilated loose-box, with plenty of straw. 

It is of first importance to act freely on the excretory 
organs. or this purpose, a cathartic or oleaginous pur- 
gative should be given at once. A full dose of aloes in the 
form of a ball is probably the best aperient in this con- 
dition. Enemas should also be administered at intervals 
until purgation begins. 

If there be much fever, the liquor of acetate of ammonium 
or other febrifuge may be given in the drinking-water, which 
should always be kept near the animal, and should not be 
restricted in amount. Stimulants and sedatives are harm- 
ful in the early stages, and should not be given; but if on 
the third or fourth day the animal shows no signs of im- 
provement, moderate doses of alcohol or of nitric ether 
should be allowed three times daily. In cases where there 
is any indication of failure of the heart’s action, stimulants 


120 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


should be given freely ; but ammonia and its compounds are 
not to be recommended, as the blood is already surcharged 
with nitrogenous waste-products. 

If the animal is unable to rise, he should be raised by 
means of slings, in which he may be allowed to remain for 
afew days. He may be taken out occasionally for a little 
exercise. If he seems disinclined to stand, the limbs may 
with advantage be briskly rubbed. 

Fomentations on the loins by means of woollen cloths 
wrung out from warm water are recommended by some, 
but this treatment is viewed with disfavour by Professor 
Williams, as likely to increase the irritability of the 
animal. 

The diet for the first few days should be restricted, and 
of a light, easily digestible kind. When convalescence is 
being established, it should be moderately nutritious. A 
few doses of nux vomica may be given with advantage after 
the discontinuance of the febrifuges.* 


OXALURIA. 


Definition.—Is a condition of the system characterized 
hy the presence of oxalate of lime in the urine, debility, 
loss of flesh, stiffness in the loins, and a branny scurf on 
the surface of the body. 


Etiology.—The causes are: irregularity of feeding; ir- 


* We believe pilocarpin injected hypodermically to be of great value 
in the early stages of the severe forms of azoturia, in addition to the 
cathartic remedies and febrifuges, though as yet we have not had suffli- 
cient experience of this disease to assert that this remedy may always 
do good. It is a powerful diaphoretic, and acts by enabling the blood 
to throw off the excess of effete matter. 

The phenomena of azoturia, indeed, seem to be dependent upon the 
accumulation of urea in the blood, owing to its increased production, 
and also to failure of the kidneys to eliminate this excess. Further, 
they are probably dependent upon the decomposition of this substance 
in the blood. 


Ver ks Ta “Somes Oe are 4 ' 


sr ki 


a <2 
i t= > 


=a a a 
a 


=> 


I 
GENERAL DISEASES. 121 
regular exercise and work; want of sufficient exercise ; 
improper diet, and impaired digestion from any cause. 
Oxaluria is most commonly met with in hunters, or other 
horses whose work is irregular, and which undergo long 
periods of fasting. It is also induced by food rich in sac- 
charine matter, as carrots, turnips, or other roots, especially 
if the digestion be deranged. 
Symptoms.—T'he animal is stiff in the loins, and easily 
fatigued ; he loses flesh, the skin becomes dry and scurfy, 
the appetite is capricious, and there is frequent voiding of 


a pale-coloured urine, often accompanied by uneasiness. 


The bowels are often constipated, and the tongue furred. 

The urine is clear, pale, and acid or neutral in reaction 
and when examined under the microscope shows crystals of 
oxalate of lime. ‘These are either in the form of octahedra 
or very rarely dumb-bell shaped. 

Treatment.—Firstly, it is necessary to administer a 
purgative. The diet should be carefully regulated, and 


roots and food containing much sugar should not be allowed. 


Vegetable tonics and mineral acids should be given to im- 
prove the digestion. For this purpose dilute nitro-hydro- 
chloric acid, tincture of nux vomica, and gentian may be 
administered three times daily. If the drinking-water 
contain lime in excess, it should be changed, as other 
remedies will not effect a cure if there be an excess of lime 
in the system. 
Regular exercise and fresh air are essential. 


STOMATITIS PUSTULOSA CONTAGIOSA.* 


Several cases of this contagious disease are reported as 
having occurred at Berlin during the summer of 1876. 


* For full description of this disease, vide Veterinary Journal for 
November, 1878. 


122 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The horses were from four to five years old. Some of them 
stood with depressed and outstretched heads. The ears and 
extremities were cold. The pulse was about 60 per minute, 
and the respirations were normal. ‘There was no loss of 
appetite even in the worst cases, but the animals masticated 
slowly, swallowed with difficulty, and saliva in abundance 
was secreted. | ae 

There was a greenish discharge from the nostrils, and 
when water was taken, much of it returned through the 
nose, 

The Schneiderian membrane was of a rose-red colour. 
The submaxillary glands were enlarged on both sides; they 
were hard, firm, and about as large as hen’s eggs. They 
were not attached to the skin or bone. The oral mucous 
membrane was hot, red, and covered with a tenacious 
secretion, and many small firm nodules, varying in size 
from a millet to a lentil seed, could be felt in it. The 
nodules increased in size and number rapidly, and soon 
appeared on the cheeks, and on the upper and lower surface 
and freenum of the tongue. In one or two days later the 
summits of the nodules presented a whitish appearance, or 
the epithelium was removed and a small ulcerated surface 
became apparent. In four or five days later the ulcerations 
were numerous, the dental surface of the lips, and the top 
of the frenum and inferior surface of the tongue being 
especially affected. About the sixth to eighth day the 
ulcerations began to heal. The disease ran its course 
rapidly, and all the cases under treatment recovered in 
from twelve to fourteen days. 

This disease, on superficial examination, might be mis- 
taken for glanders, but there are important differences 
between the two. In the former the ulcers were round, 


with sharply-defined borders, varying in si om a four- 
penny-piece to a shilling, and the edges were neither 
iW 


| 
: 


GENERAL DISEASES. lips. 


serrated nor swollen, as in glanders. Further, the ulcers 
were superficial, rarely reaching as deep as the subcutis, 
and they readily healed after the sixth day. They were 
isolated and independent of the course of the lymphatics, 
and when the brownish scab was removed they presented 
a whitish granular surface. The disease only lasted from 
twelve to fourteen days, and ran through a whole stable in 
three weeks or so. 

This disease, therefore, differs from glanders in the cha- 
racter, distribution and rapidity of the healing of the 
ulcerations; in the absence of inflammation of the ab- 
sorbents ; in the absence of ulcerations on the Schneiderian 
membrane, and finally in the rapid course of the disease, 
inthe shortness of its latent period, and in the rapidity 
with which it spreads from one animal to another. 

Stomatitis pustulosa also resembles variola equina, but it 
cannot be regarded as true equine variola. 


CHAPTER’ %% 
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 


METHODS OF PHYSICAL EXAMINATION, 
AND THE SIGNS AFFORDED BY THEM. 


THE various methods of physical examination of the 
respiratory organs are: 

INSPECTION.—When we inspect or look at the chest, 
we have two sets of facts to observe— 

Firstly, the shape or form of the chest ; 

Secondly, the number and the character of the move- 
ments of the chest during respiration. 

When the respirations are increased in range above the 
normal, they are said to be exaggerated, as, for example, in 
certain febrile affections; when decreased below the normal, 
they are said to be deficient or impaired, as, for instance, 
in certain diseases of the brain. 

When the movements are deficient, less air enters the 
lungs than is necessary, and dyspnoea, or shortness of breath, 
will result. 

Dyspnoea may result from two opposite conditions ; the 
lungs may either be prevented from expanding or from con- 
tracting as much as in the normal condition. ‘The former 
is termed ‘defective inspiration’ or ‘deficient expansion,’ 
and the dyspnoea is said to be ‘inspiratory; the latter is 
termed ‘deficient expiration,’ and the dyspnoea is called 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 125 


‘expiratory. Again, disturbance of the relation between 
the thoracic and abdominal movements may be detected. 
_ Thoracic movements in excess may be due to interference 
with the action of the diaphragm or abdominal muscles, as 
in peritonitis. Abdominal movements in excess may result 
from. causes impeding the action of the chest-walls, as in 
pleurisy. | 

PALPATION.—By palpation, or the application of the 
hand to the walls of the chest, we may feel the shape and 
movements of the walls, and whether there be any tender- 
ness or not. Occasionally also abnormal sensations, as 
pleuritic friction, may be felt. 

MENSURATION.—This method is not much practised 
in veterinary medicine in this country, but is recommended 
by French veterinarians, 

PERCUSSION.—This method consists in tapping the 
walls of the body so as to cause them to yield a sound. 
Percussion may be either direct (immediate), when we strike 
the surface with the tips of the fingers, or with the knuckles 
of the closed hand ; or it may be indirect (mediate), when 
We percuss upon something placed upon the skin. 

In the direct method, which is the more convenient in 
examining horses, it is best to strike over the surface of a 
rib, and as perpendicularly as possible. In the indirect 
method, the intervening body, whether it be a finger or a 
plesameter, should be pressed closely to the surface of the 
body. 

If the walls of a cavity containing air be struck, a hollow, 
resonant, or low-pitched sound is obtained. On the other 
hand, if a solid mass, as for instance the thigh, be struck, 
the sound produced is dull, non-resonant, or high-pitched. 
_A very resonant note is said to be tympanitic (tympanum, a 
drum). 


If the walls of the chest be percussed where the lung is 


126 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


in close contact with the walls, a fairly resonant note is 
heard in health, the sound depending on the vibration of 
the air in the pulmonary tissue, and on the —— of the 
chest-walls themselves. 

General increase of resonance occurs in the chest in cases 
of pulmonary emphysema. Partial increase may occur 
over areas where the lung has become more functionally 
active, and dilated in consequence,‘from loss or impaired 
function of the rest. Diminished resonance may occur 
from any cause obstructing the entrance of air into the 
vesicles of the lung. Loss of resonance may be due to 
hepatization of the lung or to effusion into the pleural 
cavity. 

AUSCULTATION.—By auscultation we mean Esianins 
to the sounds of the interior, either directly, by application 
of the ear to the surface, or indirectly, by means of a stetho- 
scope. In the normal condition, auscultation of the 
respiratory organs of the horse reveals at least three 
typical sounds : 

1. Tracheal, Laryngeal or Nasal Breathing. 

This may be heard over the larger cavities of the head, 
the larynx, and the trachea. 

It is a soft blowing murmur, andible during inspiration 
and expiration, between which there is a short interval. 

2. Bronchial or Tubal Breathing.—This breathing is 
harsher, and of shorter duration and less intensity, than the 
tracheal. The interval, also, between inspiration and ex- 
piration, is less marked. It is best heard at the bifurcation 
of the trachea, at the anterior part of the chest. 

Over the superior and middle third of the chest it is less 
characteristic, and is most distinct in the upper third. 

3. Pulmonary or Vesicular Breathing, or Respiratory 
Murmur.—The respiratory murmur is due to the entrance 
of air into the vesicles, or to conduction of the laryngeal 


Le nn r 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 127 


~/ 


_sounds along the bronchi and small tubes, and their modifi- 
cation by having to pass through the vesicles, or it may be 
due to both these causes. 

It is a characteristic soft breezy murmur, heard in 
inspiration and expiration, between which there is an 
appreciable interval. The expiration is very faint or in- 
audible. The murmur is louder in the young than in aged 
animals, and may be heard in the horse over the greater 
part of the chest, and is most distinct in well-bred horses, 
and in those in which the chest-walls are not loaded 
with muscle and fat. 

Changes in the Breathing Sounds in Disease : 

1. In the Anterior Air-Passages.—In some horses the 
nasal sound is abnormally ‘increased in exercise. This 
sound is louder in expiration than in inspiration. It is 
best heard during trotting or cantering gently, and usually 
disappears when the horse is going at a good steady gallop. 

It arises from the flapping of the nostrils, and constitutes 
what is improperly termed ‘ high-blowing.’ Professor Wil- 
liams says, ‘I have repeatedly observed that some horses 
will emit the sound when first put into work after resting a 
while, but when brought into condition the sound entirely 
ceases, and I have thought that the sound was due to flaccid 
condition of the dilatores naris muscles.’ 

High-blowing may also be due to narrowness of the nasal 
apertures and passages. | 

These conditions as they do not interfere with the useful- 
ness of the horse, cannot be said to constitute unsoundness. 

In thickening of the Schneiderian membrane, or when 
abnormal growths occupy the air-cavities of the head, a 
more or less blowing sound may be heard. 

In some instances, if the obstruction be very great, the 
sound may become of a whistling character ; this, however, 
is rare. It may be mistaken for a sound originating in the 


Wise BET | 
” 


128 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


larynx or lungs, but auscultation will tell us where the 
sound is produced. 

Snoring is diagnostic of polypus, and snuffling sounds 
indicate some disorder, accompanied by discharge from the 
nose, such as catarrh, purpura hemorrhagica or glanders, 
scarlatina, etc. 

A dry wheezing or whistling sound, which persists, 
indicates narrowing of the aperture of the larynx. 

In some cases of asthma a wheezing vibratory noise may 
be heard along the trachea. 

2. In the Bronchi and Lungs.—In ausculting the chest, 
the normal respiratory murmur may be heard to be aug- 
mented, and this augmentation may be local or it may be 
general, — 

A general increase may be heard as the result of anything 
which for a time enhances the activity of the breathing. 
When it is increased over the surface, as the result of the 
exclusion of air from a neighbouring portion of the lung, 
it is termed supplementary. When heard over parts of 
the chest, where it is not audible in health, the murmur 
indicates an infiltration or solidification of the pulmonary 
tissues. 

The respiratory murmur may also be diminished, and 
this diminution may likewise be partial or general. 

General diminution may be due to various causes, for 
example, to lessened respiratory action, such as occurs in 
many cerebral disorders ; or it may be due to obstructions, 
by which the normal expansion of the chest is lessened. 
The murmur may be entirely suppressed from a variety of 
causes. ‘The suppression is one of the signs of consolida- 
tion of the pulmonary tissues and of pleural effusion. 

Again, the murmur may lose its regularity and rhythmic 
character. It may become oscillating or interrupted in 
various ways in certain phases of pleurisy, or the expiration 


gs — 
ANY Hs 
ee 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATOR if ORGANS. 9129 


ox 


may become prolonged, as in emphyséma. YY ally) Rep V 


murmur may be altered in character. ~ 

If it become of higher pitch, louder OR prolonged 
in expiration, it is then said to be ‘exaggeratédor Sictsh 
breathing, and indicates changes in the ee sen “of the. 
lung-tissue, depending upon compression in the early stage 
of bronchial and pulmonary inflammation. This harsh 
breathing may subside and the breathing become normal ; 
or, on the other hand, if the disease progresses, it may 
become replaced by a very characteristic kind of breathing, 
very important in diagnosis, termed ‘ Bronchial breathing.’ 

Bronchial Breathing is similar to the variety of breathing 
above described as being audible in the normal condition 
at the bifurcation of the trachea at the anterior part of the 
chest, but is louder and more distinct. 

When it is heard over parts of the chest where it is 
normally absent, it indicates disease, and is a marked sign 
of consolidation of the lung. Sometimes it is heard in 
emphysema. 

Cavernous and amphoric breathing are varieties of 
breathing only heard in disease. They approach the 
normal laryngeal or nasal sound, but they have a greater 
hollowness. ‘They are only heard in rare instances, in 
cases where the air-tubes are in connection with CavIbIOS in 
the lung-tissue. 

New Sounds heard in Auscultating the Respiratory 
Organs.— We have as yet only spoken of sounds the 
analogues of which may be heard in health. We have now 
to consider sounds only heard in disease. They fall under 
_ two headings : (1) Those produced in the lungs, pulmonary ; 
and (2) those produced in the pleural cavity. 

1. The Pulmonary Sounds.—To these sounds the term 
‘rales’ is applied; and they may be divided into crepita- 
tion, rhonchus, and sibilus. 

9 


i} 

A 
Sf, ea 
pe 4 


130 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Crepitation.—Crepitation is produced by the bursting of 
air-bubbles in fluid, and is spoken of as large, medium, 
and small, according to the supposed site of the bubbles 
which produce them. Crepitation has, therefore, been spoken 
of as moist sounds in contradistinction to rhonchus and 
sibilus, which are dry sounds. 

Very fine crepitation is, however, probably due to the 
separation of the walls of the air-vesicles in inspiration, 
when, as the result of pressure or collapse, they have been 
in partial contact. Crepitation similar to this, but not 
similarly produced, is also occasionally heard over emphy- 
sematous lungs. 

Rhonchus and Sibilus.— These sounds are due to 
vibration in the air, through bronchial tubes in which the 
mucous membrane has become altered or roughened by 
inflammation or secretion. 

Fhonchus is produced in the large tubes and is deeper 
in tone. It is described as a snoring, cooing, or 
grating, according to its special character in different in- 
stances. 

Sibilus is produced in the smaller tubes, and is a wheezing 
noise, more hissing in character than rhonchus. 

2. Pleural Friction.—In health the surfaces of the pleurz 
are smooth, and move upon each other without producing 
any sound. When the pleurs are roughened by disease, 
the rubbing of the two roughened surfaces produces a 
sound to which the name of ‘ friction’ is applied. Friction, 
being produced in the pleura, sounds close under the ear, 
and is double, owing to the movement of the lungs to 
and fro. 

It may be very limited in extent. 

When effusion into the pleural cavity takes place, the 
surfaces of the serous membranes are separated, and the 
friction thus disappears ; but when the inflammation sub- 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. [St 


sides, and the fluid is reabsorbed, the two layers come into 
contact, and the friction is heard again, and is termed 
‘redux friction.’ 

Other Sounds sometimes heard in Auscultating the 
Chest under Certain Conditions.— Metallic Tinkling 
is a sound caused by drops of fluid falling from the walls 
of a cavity into the fluid below. It resembles the sound 
produced by drops of water falling into a well. 

Gurgling Sounds are due to the liberation of air-bubbles 
from effused material. 

Cough Resonance .—If we listen to the walls of the chest 
of a healthy horse, as he coughs the sound is heard as being 
of a soft, dull, indistinct character. 

In pulmonary disease the character of this cough reson- 
ance is altered. For instance, in hepatisation, or compres- 
sion of the lung from effusion, if the horse be made to 
cough while we listen to the chest, the sound produced is 
much louder and more distinct and harder over the 
involved area than in the normal condition. 


_ CERTAIN SYMPTOMS ASSOCIATED WITH 
DISORDER OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 


GRUNTING.—If a horse when struck or suddenly 
moved makes, during expiration, a grunting noise, he is 
said to be a ‘grunter.’ The emission of this sound is 
always to be looked upon with suspicion, as it generally 
accompanies whistling and roaring. It may or may not be 
due to disease of the larynx. A horse may grunt from 
pain, when suffering from pleurisy, pleurodynia, and other 
disorders, and some horses grunt when struck at or moved 
suddenly. 


g—2 


132 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


A large number of cart-horses, and large horses of all 
breeds, are apt to be grunters being nevertheless quite 
sound in their wind. Any horse also may grunt if he has 
been fed for a time with bulky food. 

COUGHING.—Cough is a modification of breathing, 
characterized by a deep drawn inspiration, followed by 
closure of the glottis, and one or more short but violent 
expiratory acts. It is generally excited by irritation or 
abnormal accumulation at the glottis, in the trachea, 
or in the larger bronchial tubes, or it is a simple nervous 
affection. 

Cough is dry ormoist. Dry cough is of several varieties ; 
short, hollow, hacking, broken-winded, and spasmodic. 
Dry cough is characteristic of irritation, and of dryness of 
the respiratory mucous membrane. In the early stages of 
laryngitis it is long and loud and sonorous, becoming 
rasping, and afterwards moist. 

In chronic diseases of the larynx it is loud and often 
hollow. In the early stages of bronchitis it has a hollow 
metallic sound, and becomes moist afterwards, and is more 
or less painful throughout the disease. 

In pneumonia the cough is short, and in the later stages 
of the disease it is accompanied by expectoration of a 
rusty-coloured tenacious secretion. 

The cough of pleurisy is dry and hacking, and is sometimes 
broken, as it were, in the middle. The broken-winded 
cough is at first spasmodic, becoming, as the disease advances, 
feeble, short, and single: the horse, being unable to relieve 
himself by the action of the chest and lungs, gives a sup- 
pressed cough, which is characteristic. The hollow cough 
varies in intensity, and is indicative of chronic disease. 
Moist cough is indicative of an inflamed and humid con- 
dition of the respiratory mucous membrane. 


WHISTLING is of two kinds—soft or moist, dry or 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 133 


hard. Soft whistling occurs in acute laryngitis, when 
there is considerable increase of mucus, and also when the 
mucous membrane is temporarily swollen. If it be 
occasioned by a large amount of mucous secretion, it is of 
a wheezing character, and.is mostly diminished when the 
horse coughs. If it arises from inflammatory infiltration 
of the laryngeal mucous membrane, it is louder during 
inspiration than in expiration. 
_ Soft Whistling constitutes temporary unsoundness, and 
it is, Im many cases, unsafe to hazard a decided opinion 
for some days or even weeks, until the thickening of the 
mucous membrane and relaxation of the vocal cords has had 
time to subside. 

Bry Whistling.— According to some authorities, dry 
whistling is to be regarded as a modified form of roaring. 
Others, however, are of opinion that whistling and roaring 
are due to different pathological conditions of the larynx, 
and that they may exist independently of each other. 
With the latter views we entirely concur. 

Dry whistling, like roaring, is a noise made more espe- 
cially during inspiration. It is due to diminished calibre of 
the larynx, and sometimes of the trachea, owing to per- 
manent thickening of the mucous membrane, distortion of 
the neck by tight reining, the presence of a tumour in the 
trachea, or to any cause which diminishes the calibre of 
the passages through which the air passes to and from the 
lungs. 

Whistling, though loudest in inspiration, is by no means — 
always absent during expiration. : 

If entirely absent during expiration, the pathological 
change is to be sought in the larynx, or upper part of the 
air-passages. 

Whistling, like roaring, is often traceable to hereditary 
taint, and constitutes unsoundness. 


134 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


ROARING is a loud unnatural sound made during 
inspiration. It is in some cases symptomatic of acute 
laryngitis, and then only indicates temporary unsound- 
ness, | 
Roaring is generally due to atrophy and fatty degenera- 
tion of certain muscles of the larynx, especially those which 
pass between and attach the arytenoid cartilages to the 
cricoid posteriorly. The origin of the degenerative changes 
in the muscles leading to the paralysis is not certainly 
known. The disease is generally confined to the left 
laryngeal muscles, and many have supposed that this is due 
to the fact that the recurrent laryngeal nerve passes from 
the pneumogastric at a more distant spot than does the 
corresponding nerve of the right side, and that, moreover, 
the nerve on the left side winds round the posterior aorta. 
According to this view, the left recurrent nerve is thus 
more likely to be involved in any disease of the chest than 
on the right side, where it is given off opposite the first rib, 
and winds round the dorsal artery. 

Such an explanation, however, is open to many objec- 
tions ; firstly, roaring is not a common sequel of pulmonary 
disease ; secondly, many roarers have never had any chest 
affection ; thirdly, mares and ponies are less liable to 
become roarers than large geldings and stallions, but are 
equally prone to chest affections ; fourthly, the nerve itself 
shows no pathological change, as far as we know; and 
finally, the atrophic change in the muscles, though usually 
seen on the left side of the larynx only, is not uncommon 
on the right side also, though to a less extent. | 

The disease of the muscles is, however, of an essentially 
nervous origin, and ought to be classed as a form of wasting 
_ palsy—paralysis atrophicans. , 

Roaring is in most instances gradually developed. At 
first the sound may be intermittent, and even weeks may 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 135 


elapse before it recurs after being once heard. As the 
muscles continue to waste, there is a corresponding and 
permanent loss of power, and what at first was intermittent 
is now established. 

Most commonly, however, the noise is not intermittent. 
It is usually slight at first, and then gradually increases 
with the waste, and consequent inability of the muscles to 
- open the laryngeal orifice. 

Causes of Roaring.—Heredity plays a very prominent 
part in the transmission of roaring. Professor Williams 
mentions a breed of horses in which nearly all the animals 
of both sexes are roarers. Horses and geldings are, how- 
ever, more likely to become roarers than mares, which are 
rarely afflicted unless the hereditary predisposition is very 
marked. 

Small ponies are rarely if ever affected. An animal 
predisposed to roaring in most cases suffers from laryn- 
geal affections from very slight causes,.and the infirmity 
usually appears after several attacks of sore throat and 
cold. 

There are other causes of roaring besides those resulting 
from the condition of the laryngeal muscles above men- 
tioned. 

These are not so frequently met with, but are of great 
importance. 

The characteristic sound may be due to disease of the 
nose: nasal polypi; osseous tumours in the nostrils, or 
hypertrophy of the turbinated bones; constriction of the 
laryngeal orifice ; tumours on the posterior nares, falling 
into the glottis and causing intermittent roaring ; disten- 
sion of the guttural pouches; tumours in the thorax; 
disease of the lymphatic glands of the pharynx ; injury or 
disease of the trachea, or, finally, any distortion of the 
larynx. 


136 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The roarer generally has a characteristic cough in addi- 
tion to the abnormal inspiratory sound. This cough is a 
loud, harsh, and dry sound. 

Most roarers are also grunters in addition. 

In testing a horse for its wind, it is customary to place 
him against a wall and make a feint to strike him. If he 
grunts he is further examined ;if not, he is made to cough 
by compressing the larynx, and if the cough enforced sound 
healthy, he is passed. It is, however, best to have the horse - 
galloped, and let him finish his run as he is going uphill. 
In the case of a draught-horse, the animal may be made to 
draw a load ata fair pace up an inclined plane, when, if he 
be a roarer, the characteristic sound will be made. All 
forms of roaring constitute unsoundness, yet in some cases 
of recent inflammation of the respiratory organs, the animal 
may be again examined after a reasonable interval before 
being finally rejected. 

Treatment of Roaring.—In cases of abnormal growths 
in the nasal chambers, a careful examination should be 
made with the speculum and by percussion. If a polypus 
be detected, we may endeavour to remove it if operation is 
feasible. Similarly, if any removable adventitious growth 
be found to be the cause of the infirmity, it should be treated 
according to the requisite surgical methods. 

When roaring follows influenza, catarrh, or strangles, it 
should be carefully treated. The animal should have light 
work only, and nutritious diet. Potassium iodide, with 
quinine and liquor arsenicalis may be given in moderate 
doses twice daily. In addition, the throat should be 
smartly blistered with ointment of cantharides and biniodide 
of mercury. 

The greater number of cases of roaring met with how- 
ever, are due to atrophy and paralysis of the laryngeal 
muscles, 


DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 137 


Many methods of treatment have been suggested for 
these, which are the most hopeless cases. Blisters or the 
actual cautery have, however, succeeded in arresting the 
atrophic change when applied in the early stages to the 
skin of the laryngeal region. 

Potassium chlorate is recommended as worthy of 
trial for arresting the fatty degeneration. In very bad 
cases the sound may be lessened by pads attached to the 
bridle and fitted carefully over the nostrils, so as to 
regulate the amount of air entering the larynx. If this 
method is ineffectual, tracheotomy may be performed, 
and the tube kept in during the rest of the life of the 
animal. 

Probably the galvanic current is of great benefit, and is 
well worthy of careful trial. 

Removal of the left arytenoid cartilage has been recom- 
mended by Herr Giinther, but the cases thus operated on 
in this country are not sufficiently successful to warrant 
the general adoption of this method. Bad roarers can be 
used for slow work ; they thrive badly as a rule, and often 
fall victims to slight disorders. 


ACUTE CATARRH. 


Synonyms.—Catarrh ; coryza; common cold. 
Definition.—By the term ‘ catarrh’ we signify a condition 
characterized by inflammation of the mucous membrane of 
the nasal chambers, and of its continuation along the upper 
portions of the larynx and trachea. In this condition there 
is a discharge from the nose, and occasionally cough and 
sore throat. | 
Febrile symptoms are also often present. 
‘Etiology.—Sudden variation in the temperature; ex- 


138 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


posure to cold and damp ; hot, badly-ventilated stables, and 
contact with affected animals, are among the chief causes of 
catarrh, Young animals, when first brought up into 
warm stables, are especially subject to attack. During the 
change of the coat there is also great predisposition to 
catch cold. | 

Symptoms.—Sneezing; redness and dryness of the 
Schneiderian membrane, followed by discharge, at first thin, 
but soon becoming turbid, yellowish-white, and profuse. 
There is also redness of the conjunctival membrane, with 
discharge of tears and drooping of the head. Febrile sym- 
ptoms are sometimes manifested, and vary much in intensity. 
The internal temperature may rise about 3°, or even a little 
higher. The pulse and respiration are then accelerated, and 
the appetite is impaired. Debility and general dulness fre- 
quently supervene. 

Prognosis.—Very favourable. 

Treatment.—In mild cases rest from work, in a 
well ventilated but not draughty or cold loose box, will 
suffice, with attention to the diet. In all cases where the 
febrile manifestations are at all severe, febrifuges, as acetate 
of ammonium, may be given with nitrate or chlorate of 
potash twice or three times daily. 

When the bowels are much confined, enemas of warm 
water may be administered, and, if necessary, two drachms 
of aloes may be given. 

If the throat be sore and the cough troublesome, we may 
administer the compound tincture of camphor, or other re- 
medies, in addition to the fever medicine. 

In the early stages, while the mucous membrane is dry, 
inhalation of hot water vapour is useful in relieving the 
irritation. When the throat symptoms are severe, com- 
pound liniment of camphor, or liniment of turpentine, or 
cantharides should be applied externally. The diet should 


a 


| 


es 
DISEASES OF THE RESPIRATORY ORGANS. 139 


be laxative, consisting of scalded oats, oatmeal, or linseed 
gruel and green food. | 


CHRONIC NASAL CATARRH. 


_ Definition.—A discharge of varying character from the 
nasal chambers, which may be continuous or irregular. 

Etiology.—Most of the cases of nasal catarrh are due to 
unhealthy condition of the mucous membrane of the nasal 
chambers or of the mucous cavities in connection with 
them, and are the result of protracted and. severe cases of 
acute catarrh. It may arise from other causes, as external 
injuries, caries of the upper molars, disease of the superior 
maxillary bone, alveolar abscesses, disease of the facial 
bones, etc. These latter will be considered under 
‘Surgery.’ 

Symptoms.—There is a discharge of a glairy purulent 
fluid, and the Schneiderian membrane is of a leaden hue, 
or it may be blanched and thickened with infiltration. 

The general health is generally somewhat impaired. 

Treatment.—The animal should be rested, and liberal 
diet allowed. Salts of iron or arsenic are recommended in- 
ternally, with or without vegetable tonics. 

Locally, lotions consisting of four or five grains of sulpho- 
carbolate of zinc, or half a drachm of sulphate of copper 
to the ounce of water, may be injected up the nostrils by 
means of an enema syringe or through a Rey’s nasal funnel. 
The use of atomised solids is in some instances to be pre- 
ferred to lotions. 

Iodoform, blown into the nostrils by an insufflator, is an 
_ efficacious remedy. 


140 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


DISEASES OF THE LARYNX, 


ACUTE LARYNGITIS.—Definition.—Is an inflamma- 
tion of the lining membrane of the larynx. 


Two forms of acute laryngitis may be distinguished; 


acute catarrhal laryngitis, and oedematous laryngitis. 

ACUTE CATARRHAL LARYNGITIS.—This is the 
simplest form, and is dependent upon the same causes as 
common catarrh, of which, indeed, it is usually one of the 
earliest and most prominent symptoms. There is pain and 
difficulty in swallowing, and on manipulation of the throat. 
Usually there is cough; at first hard and sonorous, but 
afterwards becoming less resonant. . 

There is swelling in the submaxillary space and over the 
parotid region. Nasal discharge may or may not be an 
accompaniment, although it is a constant symptom when 
catarrh is also present. 

Febrile symptoms are more pronounced than they are in 
simple catarrh. ‘There is diminution or loss of appetite, 
elevated teniperature, and acceleration of pulse. 

CGDEMATOUS LARYNGITIS.—The structural changes 
in this form of laryngitis are distinctive. ‘Thereis excessive 
infiltration of the submucous tissues of the pharynx and 
larynx, and the mucous membrane is pulpy and of a leaden 
metallic hue. In some instances patches of ecchymosis and 
gangrenous spots are met with on the inflamed membrane. 
The rapidity with which the infiltration of the laryngeal 
and neighbouring structures takes place, the suddenness of 
the onset, and its frequently fatal termination, are dis- 


tinguishing features of this form of laryngitis. Cidematous — 


laryngitis may succeed what at first appeared as an ordinary 
case of the catarrhal form, or it may begin suddenly and 


a 


‘DISEASES OF THE LARYNX. 141 


run a very rapid course. It has also been met with as 


the result of the inhalation of poisonous acrid vapours 


and hot air. Sometimes, in a few hours, the swelling and 


infiltration become very considerable and the breathing 


much disturbed. The pulse is accelerated, the temperature 


elevated, and the visible mucous membranes become of a 
_ purplish hue, owing to deficient aération of the blood. The 


nose is protruded, the superior air-passages being thus 
made to approach as near as possible .a horizontal line. 
The glottis is indeed sometimes so occluded through exces- 
sive infiltration of the structures bounding the orifice as to 


cause imminent danger to life from suffocation. 


Rapid effusion into the submucous tissue and swelling 
of the mucous membrane is termed ‘cedema glottidis.’ 


In these cases the respiration becomes suddenly difficult, 


and the inspiratory act is especially prolonged, and accom- 


_ panied with a peculiar harsh sound succeeded by a short 


expiration. The alee of the nostrils are dilated to their 
full extent, the face has an anxious expression, and there is 
great distress. The extremities are cold, and sweats bedew 


the body. The animal stamps with its feet, and the distress 


becomes increased ; the visible mucous membranes become 
more livid, prostration ensues, and the horse, unless relieved, 
soon sticcumbs. 

Sequele of Laryngitis —Thickening of the mucous 
membrane; atrophy and degeneration of the laryngeal 
muscles; and ulceration of the structures bounding the 
rima glottidis. 

Treatment of Laryngitis.—In severe cases the treatment 
should be as prompt as possibie. Inhalations of hot-water 
vapour, medicated or not, and hot fomentations should be 


applied, but if the general distress and difficulty in breath. 


ing continue, tracheotomy may be necessary in order to 
avert suffocation. The hot-water vapour may be generated 


142 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


by pouring hot water over chopped hay or bran in a nose- 
bag, and may be medicated by the addition of chloroform 
or opium, or other drugs. 

In mild cases, inhalations, fomentations to the throat, 
succeeded by stimulating liniments or blisters, are recom- 
mended. Febrifuges may be given internally. The diet 
should be soft and laxative, and the horse should be warmly 
clad and placed in a well ventilated airy loose box. When 
deglutition is very difficult it is necessary to give all 
medicines in the water or food. 

Belladonna is recommended in the early shatoes and should 
be administered by placing the extract between the horse’s 
teeth as an electuary. During recovery the diet should 
be as nutritious as possible, and vegetable and mineral 
tonics should be administered in order to combat the great 
prostration usually left in these cases. 


DISEASES OF THE BRONCHI. 


ACUTE CATARRHAL BRONCHITIS.—Definition.— 
Bronchitis is a catarrhal inflammation of the mucous 
membrane of the bronchial tubes. It may be limited to 
the trachea and large bronchial tubes (simple bronchitis), 
or it may extend to their ultimate ramifications (capillary 
bronchitis). 

Etiology and Nature.—The causes are predisposing and 
exciting. ‘The predisposing causes are debility, previous 
attacks of bronchial inflammation, and cardiac diseases of a 
chronic nature. ‘The exciting causes are exposure to cold 
and damp, exhaustion, and irritation of the bronchial 
membrane by noxious vapours, or by the accidental entrance 
of fluids or solids into the bronchial tubes ; epizootic in- 
fluences in some instances, as observed in certain forms of 
influenza; and lastly, bronchitis as met with in certain 


DISEASES OF THE BRONCHL rs 


specific fevers and under various other conditions depending 
upon malhygienic conditions. 

Varieties.—Acute Bronchitis may be grouped under the 
following varieties: (1) primary or idiopathic bronchitis, 
which may involve the larger air-tubes or may extend to 
their ultimate ramifications ; (2) secondary bronchitis, or 
bronchitis co-existing with specific fevers and other diseases 
depending on an unhealthy condition of the system; (3) 
mechanical bronchitis, or bronchitis depending on noxious 
vapours, fluids, or solids, irritating the lining membrane of 
the tubes. 

1. Symptoms of Acnte Bronchitis of the Large and 
Small Tubes.—Acute bronchitis is usually ushered in with 
chilliness, malaise, and febrile symptoms, though in many 
cases these may be trivial. 

When fully developed, besides the symptoms of ordinary 
catarrh, there is a irequent hard and sonorous cough, which 
becomes softer as exudation into the bronchi increases in 
the progress of the disease. The appetite is impaired and 
the horse is dull and dejected. The pulse is increased and 
is rather soft; the respirations are much accelerated, being 
relatively much higher than the number of pulse-beats. In 
many severe cases indeed they are as numerous as the pulse, 
and may even exceed it in number. 

Physical Signs.—Generally there is no alteration in per- 
cussion in bronchitis, though there may be dulness over 
portions of the chest where the lung is collapsed, owing to 
obstruction to the passage of air in inspiration by inspis- 
sated mucus, and also when pneumonia or other complica- 
tions are present. In some instances of acute bronchitis 
attended with much secretion, the percussion note is more 
resonant than usual, owing to distension of the lung-tissue 
with air. ‘This condition sometimes proceeds to actual 
emphysema. ‘The breathing-sounds are coarse and noisy. 


144 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In the early stages, when the large bronchi are specially 
affected, loud, sonorous rhonchi may be heard over the 
anterior part of the chest, and also behind the scapula, 
at the upper and middle thirds of the chest. If the smaller 
ramifications be involved, sibilant rales are heard ; they 
are of higher pitch, and wheezing and hissing in character. 
The milder forms of bronchitis yield no physical signs 
of importance. 

As the disease progresses, there is secretion of viscid 
mucus from the bronchial mucous membrane, and the sounds 
in consequence become moist, being modified by the pass- 
ing of the air through the bubbles of mucus. In the large 
bronchi, where the sonorous rhonchi were heard, large cre- 
pitations or mucous rales, as they are sometimes called, are 
now audible in their stead. In the smaller tubes lesser 
crepitant sounds or smart sibilant rales are heard. 

In cases where the deeper and more sonorous sounds are 
in excess of the high-pitched sibilant rales, the disease is 
mainly confined to the large bronchi, and the smaller 
ramifications are entirely free. The prognosis in such cases 
is more favourable. 

When the smaller bronchi are especially affected, the ex- 
pirations are much prolonged, and the prognosis is more 
serious. 

In some cases one or several bronchi may be blocked 
up, and thus portions of the lung may collapse, and 
consolidation, atrophy, and pulmonary emphysema may be 
induced. ; 

As the disease progresses there is expectoration of a 
scanty, ropy, tenacious mucus. The discharge escapes to 
some extent through the nose, but the greater part passes 
into the mouth, and is swallowed. In the later stages, how- 
ever, a profuse discharge escapes through the nostrils. The 
cough becomes more violent and frequent than at first, but 


DISEASES OF THE BRONCHI. 145 


gradually becomes less severe as the secreted mucus becomes 
thinner and clearer, and finally disappears. 

Bronchitis of the larger tubes is not generally a fatal 
disease ; but when affecting the smaller bronchial ramifica- 
tions and pulmonary vesicles, especially if there be pro- 
fuse discharge of yellowish matter, which blocks up and 
occludes the small tubes and air-cells, the prognosis is very 
serious. 

Secondary Bronchitis.—Is sometimes met with in rheuma- 
tism, glanders, ‘and in young horses suffering from scrofulous 
arthritis it is a common complication, and is here found in 
conjunction with pulmonary embolism’ (Robertson). 

In these cases the bronchial symptoms are usually mani- 
fested during the progress of the primary disease. 

Mechanical Bronchitis.—The symptoms of this form of 
bronchitis vary much with the nature of the cause, and are 
similar to those of acute catarrhal bronchitis. Mechanical 
bronchitis is induced by some irritant in contact with the 
lining membrane of the tubes. The irritating agent may be 
gaseous, as, for instance, smoke from burning buildings or 
acrid fumes ; or it may be fluid or solid, as, for instance, 
food or other matters finding their way into the air-tubes. 
Mechanical irritation in some instances causes the condition 
known as plastic bronchitis, in which laminated fibrinous 
casts are formed in the air-tubes, and block up the lumina, 
thus inducing serious pulmonary mischief. 

Morbid Anatomy of Bronchitis.—Inflammation of the 
bronchial tubes is attended with changes in the epithelial 
covering, glandular secretions, and in the subjacent tissues. 

The mucous membrane is congested, sometimes intensely 
so, and undergoes more or less infiltration and thickening. 
It may acquire a granular aspect and soft pulpy consistence. 
The inflammation may be limited to the surface of the mucous 
membrane, but often pervades the sub-mucous tissues, in 

10 


146 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


some cases involving the whole thickness of the bronchial 
walls, and leading to infiltration and induration of the con- 
nective-tissue surrounding them. 

In some instances the inflammatory process ends in 
ulceration, and ulcerated patches of varying size may be ob- 
served after death. 

When the small tubes are especially involved, the thicken- 
ing of the mucous membrane encroaches more seriously on 
the channels of the affected tubes, and their secretions tend 
to accumulate in them, and block up their lumina entirely. 

In cases where the secretion is abundant or viscid, diffuse 
or circumscribed patches of collapsed or condensed lung 
tissue of varying extent are of frequent occurrence. 

This condition (atelectasis) results from the plugging of 
the bronchi with inspissated secretion or pus. These 
patches may be seen after death on the surface of the lung, 
as depressed areas of a dark violet hue, the surrounding 
parts being of a light pink colour, and either healthy or 
emphysematous. 

The collapsed portions are less crepitant than normal 
lung, but not so much as hepatized lung, and they resemble 
foetal lung, sinking slowly in water. 

On cutting into the lungs, the large and small tubes, and 
sometimes the trachea, contain a quantity of secretion. 
This condition, as well as the collapse, is usually limited to 
the anterior lobes of the lung, and rarely affects the large 
lobules except by extension. The fluid in the tubes in the 
earlier stage, after that of arrested‘ secretion, is thin and 
serous, but afterwards becomes thick and yellow. In the 
trachea it is frothy, more or less, and is abundant in the 
small tubes, from which yellow matter may be expressed. 

If a portion of the collapsed tissue be cut into, opaque 
serous blood-stained fluid, sometimes intermingled with 
purulent secretion, exudes from the cut surface. After a 


a ee 


DISEASES OF THE BRONCHI. 147 


time, the collapsed lung-tissue becomes atrophied, and re- 
placed by fibrous material, and compensatory vesicular 
emphysema of the neighbouring lung-tissue is developed. 

Pulmonary collapse is more generally met with in cases 
of secondary bronchitis and where the animal is in a very 
debilitated condition. 

In all cases of bronchitis the bronchial glands are en- 
larged, and become more or less friable, and in the later 
stages still larger, owing to the accumulation of inflamma- 
tory products. 

At an early stage in acute bronchitis the epithelium of the 
tubes is shed, and is not reproduced until after subsidence of 
inflammation, and the mucous membrane is thus left in an 
exposed condition. This shedding of the epithelium is 
probably due to infiltration of the basement membrane of 
the tubes. Bronchitis may end fatally by absorption of 
putrescent catarrhal products, by gangrene of the collapsed 
lung, or by sudden and copious effusion into the bronchi. 

Treatment of Bronchitis.—The horse should be warmly 
clad, and placed in a well-ventilated loose box, and the 
diet should be liberal, nutritious and laxative. 

It very rarely happens that we see a case of bronchitis in 
its earliest stage, in which anodynes, as, for instance, 
opium in moderate doses, are likely to be efficacious in 
reducing the irritation. After the early stage is passed, it 
is our object to promote the natural course of the inflamma- 
tion, as we can no longer expect to cut short the attack. 
With this object in view the animal should be made to inhale 
hot-water vapour, which may be medicated with camphor 
or carbolic acid. In all cases of acute bronchitis, inhalation 
is of the greatest importance, but especially when the dis 
charge is very profuse, is it of special efficacy in promoting 
the discharge from the bronchial tubes. If there be_any 
laryngeal inflammation, stimulating embrocations, as, for 

10—2 


148 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


instance, compound camphor liniment, should be applied 
externally. If the bowels are inactive, enemas should be 
administered, and if they still continue very constipated, a 
dose of linseed oil may be given. 

A draught, made up of three ounces of solution of 
acetate of ammonium, half an ounce of nitric ether, one 
drachm of camphor, and half an ounce of tincture of squills, 
may be given three times daily, in eight ounces of water. 

In cases where the small tubes are much affected, blisters 
or stimulating liniments may be applied with advantage to 
the sides of the chest. 

Where the cough is troublesome after the abatement of the 
acute symptoms, a draught of camphor and hyoscyamus, with 
a small dose of morphia, may be administered twice daily. 

In the later stages, if there be much debility, vegetable 
and mineral tonics, as, for instance, sulphate and carbonate 
of iron, quinine, nux vomica, and gentian, are indicated, and 
if there be still much cough, camphor may be added. 

Chronic Bronchitis.—Chronic bronchitis is met with in 
the horse either as a sequel of the acute form or as an 
independent disease. 

It differs from the acute form in its slower progress, and 
‘In its symptoms being less severe, and is characterized by 
a persistent hard sonorous cough, and by the absence of 
febrile manifestations, and, moreover, the matter expec- 
torated is rarely of that viscid cellular nature of acute 
bronchitis. 

The sounds heard on listening to the chest are somewhat 
similar to those of the former, and the respiration is almost 
invariably embarrassed, especially when the horse is under- 
going any severe exertion. 

In some instances an attack of acute bronchitis may 
supervene on the chronic disease from very slight causes. 

Chronic bronchitis seems to be in a great measure due to 


DISEASES OF THE BRONCHI. 149 


thickening of the walls of the small bronchial tubes, narrow- 
ing and constricting their lumina. 

In many instances this disease causes gradual loss of 
flesh, diminution of appetite, and general debility. When 
it occurs as an independent affection it is generally 
gradual in its onset and development, and of a very persis- 
tent nature when once established. 

Treatment.—The diet should be liberal and nutritious, 
Rest is not necessary, though severe exertion should be 
prohibited. The remedies recommended in the acute form 
may be with advantage tried in the more persistent and 
chronic form of the malady. 

Camphor, squills, hyoscyamus, digitalis, morphia, extract 
of belladonna, and hydrocyanic acid are recommended, and 
should be followed up by the administration of mineral or 
vegetable tonics or both. Among the latter, nux vomica, 
quinine, iron, and arsenic are well worthy of trial. 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 
CONGESTION OF THE LUNGS. 


Synonyms. — Pulmonary congestion. Pulmonary apo- 
plexy. 

Definition.—Is a hyperzemic condition of the lungs, de- 
pendent on engorgement of the pulmonary vessels with blood. 

Etiology and Nature.—Congestion of the lungs is met 
with in the horse, not only during the progress of many 
diseases, such as pneumonia, laminitis, traumatic arthritis, 
enteritis, cardiac affections, and some epizootic fevers, but 
also as a distinct and independent affection. 

Pulmonary congestion is acute (arterial) or passive 
(mechanical or venous). 


150 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Acute Congestion is the more frequent of the two forms 
in the horse, and is the more easily recognised. When 
accompanied by hemorrhage from rupture of the pulmonary 
capillaries, it is sometimes spoken of as pulmonary apoplexy. 

Acute congestion is the result of sudden exertion in an 
untrained condition, exhaustion, badly-ventilated stables, 
and various other causes which under some conditions 
induce this malady, but under other circumstances are 
provocative of bronchial or common catarrh. 

Passive Congestion may be due to retarded venous circu- 
lation, as in mitral and some other cardiac diseases, or to 
general exhaustion, resulting in some fevers, and other 
debilitating affections. 

When an animal in an untrained condition is suddenly 
called upon to perform any unusual exertion, the cardiac, 
pulmonary and muscular systems may not be able to respond 
to the increased strain put upon them. Under these cir- 
cumstances—as, for instance, when an unprepared horse is 
suddenly put into the hunting-field—the heart’s action 
becomes embarrassed and tumultuous, the blood accumu- 
lates in the pulmonary capillaries, and the breathing 
becomes more and more distressed, until, at length, he may 
die of suffocation, consequent on overloading and engorge- 
ment of the lungs with deoxidized blood. Under careful 
training the cardiac and other systems are gradually accus- 
tomed, by regular and careful exercise, to perform additional 
work, and their tone and vigour is enhanced, and the 
system responds duly to even severe strains. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of the acute forms of 
pulmonary congestion are in most instances of a very severe 
type, and the affection is specially characterized by very 
great dyspnoea. The horse stands with his limbs out- 
stretched, and gasps for breath. All the available ordinary 
and extraordinary muscles of respiration are called into 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 15] 


play ; the nostrils open and close in quick succession, and 
the flanks heave to and fro with great rapidity. Cold 
sweats bedew the surface of the body; the extremities 
become icy cold, and the visible mucous membranes show by 
their livid hue the deoxidized state of the blood. 

The pulse is much accelerated, and may reach 100-140 
per minute; it is feeble, oppressed, indistinct, and becomes 
almost imperceptible in severe cases, and there is a tremor 
all over the body. 

The heart’s action, which is irregular and tumultuous 
from the first, becomes still more embarrassed ; the lungs 
become more engorged ; and the breathing still more dis- 
tressed, until, at length, death results from asphyxia or 
suffocation. In more favourable instances, however, the 
engorgement subsides, the heart regains power, the cir- 
culation through the lungs is restored, and the animal soon 
regains its normal condition. 

In some instances frothy blood is discharged through the 
nostrils, from rupture of the engorged capillaries of the 
lungs; in others, this hemoptysis, or discharge of blood 
from the lungs, does not occur. Auscultation in some 
cases reveals abundant minute crepitation, generally 
diffused, but sometimes heard only over limited areas. 

It is unnecessary to say much of passive pulmonary con- 
gestion, as this is treated of under the various diseases of 
which it is an accompaniment. 

It will suffice to mention, that although the symptoms in 
these cases are less marked, yet the disease is more frequently 
fatal than in the acute form occurring as the result of 
exertion in an unfit condition to bear the strain. 

Prognosis.—Is favourable, except in very sevére cases. 

Sequele.—Acute congestion of the lungs is very liable 
to recur for some time after apparent recovery, and is not 
 unfrequently followed by acute inflammation of the lungs, 


£52 MANUAL OF EQUINE: MEDICINE. 


Morbid Anatomy.—The pathological lesions found after 
death from acute congestion of the lungs, are as charac- 
teristic as the symptoms during life. 

The lungs are found to be of a dark purple hue, firm and 
crepitant, and the vessels of the pulmonary tissue are 
engorged with deoxidized blood of a tarry consistence. 
Here and there darker spots may be seen, where extravasa- 
tion has occurred into the parenchyma of the lung. The 
appearance of the lungs resembles that of the spleen ; and 
the term splenification, or splenization, has thus been given 
to this congested condition of the pulmonary structures. 
The organs are more condensed and heavy than normal, but 
will generally float in water, thus differing from the condi- 
tion which we shall shortly consider, termed hepatization, 
the result of inflammation of the lungs. 

The lining membrane of the whole respiratory tract is 
congested, especially in the bronchial tubes, and is covered 
with frothy mucous secretion. 

Both sides of the heart are filled with darkly coloured, 
thick, but not coagulated, blood. The right auricle and 
ventricle, with the large vessels in connection with them, 
are especially engorged. 

In cases of passive congestion, associated with other 
diseases which have a fatal termination, the lungs are 
found to be more crepitant, and not so dark in colour, 
and there is a greater quantity of frothy mucus in the 
air-tubes. 

Instances of death from acute congestion have not un- 
frequently occurred within a few days of purchase of a 
horse, and the lesions found after death have been ascribed 
by the uninformed to long-standing disease of the lungs. 
On some occasions the seller has, in consequence, been com- 
pelled to pay full value of the animal. And yet these very 
features, which were attributed to old-standing disease, are, 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 153 


on the contrary, the characteristic results of acute disease. 
Indeed, the darkly coloured friable condition of the lungs, 
with the tendency to putrefaction and liquidity of the 
pulmonary tissue, without the formation of organized exuda- 
tion, so far from being the result of chronic disease, are in 
all cases characteristic of acuteness of attack. 

Treatment.—In the treatment of acute congestion, it is 
imperative that the horse have a plentiful supply of pure 
fresh air, and strict quietude and repose should be enjoined 
in all cases. The body should be well rubbed with wisps of 
straw and afterwards warmly clad. The legs should be 
earefuily bandaged with thick wool or flannel, being pre 
viously rubbed with some stimulating liniment. 

Internally, diffusible stimulants, as ether or alcohol, in its 
various forms, in moderate and frequently repeated doses, 
are of great value in helping to restore the flagging circula- 
tion. Acetate of ammonium, or nitrate of potash, may with 
advantage be given in addition to the stimulant. 

Professor Williams speaks favourably of the tincture of 
arnica; but we have not found the efficacy of this medicine 
much to be relied upon in this disease. 

If the symptoms are still unrelieved after this treatment, 
bleeding is necessary, in order to relieve the pulmonary con- 
gestion and the engorgement of the great veins and right 
side of the heart, and thus avert impending suffocation. 

From three to four quarts of blood may be withdrawn. 
It is not advisable to repeat the bleeding, nor to apply 
mustard or other irritants to the sides of the animal, as 
these measures merely annoy the animal and thus increase 
the respirations and enhance the dyspnea. 

In order to guard against inflammation of the lungs, 
which sometimes succeeds acute congestion, as well as to 
prevent the recurrence of the congestion itself, careful 
management is required for some time after the abatement 


154 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of the acute symptoms. The diet should be light and nu- 
tritious, and easily assimilable. The box in which the 
horse is placed should be well ventilated, but not draughty, 
and the body should be kept warm with clothing. Water 
may be allowed freely from the first onset of the 
disease. 


PNEUMONIA, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE 
LUNGS. 


Inflammatory processes in the lungs comprise the follow- 
ing three chief varieties : 

1. Acute, plastic, lobar, croupous pneumonia. — 

2. Catarrhal, lobular or broncho-pneumonia. 

3. Chronic, or interstitial pneumonia. 

ACUTE PNEUMONIA is now accepted as a general 
disease, of which pneumonic consolidation is the prominent 
local lesion. ‘There is some probability, from its clinical 
features, of this disease being due to a living specific germ 
or bacterium. 

CATARRHAL PNEUMONIA is inflammation of the lung- 
tissue associated with and usually secondary to inflammation 
of the bronchial mucous membrane occurring indepen- 
dently or as a complication of some specific fever. 

It is at first usually limited to scattered groups of air- 
cells, and hence is termed lobular. | 

INTERSTITIAL PNEUMONIA.—Probably never occurs 
as a primary and independent affection. In all cases it is 
probably the sequel of some more acute inflammation of 
the pulmonary or bronchial tissues, or of the pleura. 

ETIOLOGY. OF PNEUMONIA.—The usual exciting 
causes of pneumonia are sudden chills, exposure to wet and 
cold, especially after severe exertion or fatigue, and con- 
finement in draughty or foul and badly ventilated stables. 


ae ae 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 155 


Pneumonia is especially prevalent during spring and 
autumn, when sudden changes in the atmospheric conditions 
are of frequent occurrence. Congestion of the lungs, and 
also previous inflammation of these organs, are both pre- 
disposing causes of pneumonia. 

Pneumonia may also be induced by irritating gases, by 
the smoke of burning straw or wood, or other materials, by 
medicines, especially such irritants as ammonia, and by 
any foreign bodies which find their way into the lungs. 
It may result from injury to the lung through wounds in 
the chest-walls, or by fractured ribs penetrating into the 
lung-tissue ; but pneumonia from these causes is not of 
such frequent occurrence as might be anticipated. 

Pneumonia is met with in some specific fevers, as influenza, 
purpura, anthrax, and some others. 

In pyzemia and glanders it is sometimes developed as 
the result of infecting material carried to the lungs. 

Lastly, catarrh of the ordinary type, when neglected or 
treated carelessly, often terminates in secondary pneumonia 
by spreading of the inflammation downwards into the pul- 
monary vesicles, 

PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN PNEUMONIA.—In- 
flammation of the lungs generally commences in the in- 
ferior portions, and invades the tissues from below upwards 
(Williams), and in all cases the small bronchial tubes are 
more or less involved in the process. 

The pneumonia process not unfrequently involves both 
lungs, especially when associated with or preceded by 
bronchial inflammation, but far more often it affects one 
side only, the right side being oftener involved than the 
left. 

1. PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN ACUTE PNEU- 
MONIA.—The local changes in acute pneumonia consist in 
Intense inflammatory hyperemia of the lungs, and in the 


156 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


exudation of a large quantity of coagulable material into 
the tissue. 

Acute inflammation of the lungs is termed croupous, from 
its resemblance to the pathological changes resulting in 
croup. 

It is also termed lobar, because it almost always invades a 
large part of the lung. 

There are three stages in this inflammatory process, but 
it must not be imagined that each one occurs simultaneously 
throughout the whole of the affected portion of the lung. 
On the contrary, the changes proceed irregularly, and while 
one portion is in the second stage another may be in the 
third, thus accounting for the marbled appearance of con- 
solidated lung (Green). 

The stages are firstly that of engorgement, secondly, that 
of red hepatization, and thirdly, that of grey hepatization. 

In the first stage the lung becomes very vascular, and the 
changes in the vessels and circulation are such as already 
mentioned under ‘Inflammation.’ The absolute weight and 
specific gravity of the lungs are increased, their elasticity is 
diminished, and they are less crepitant and more friable 
than normally. They are of a dark red colour, and pit 
on pressure, and the cut surface yields a red, frothy, tena- 
cious, viscid liquid. 

In the second stage, that of red hepatization, there is 
exudation of liquor sanguinis and migration of blood-cells 
into the pulmonary tissue. ‘The exuded liquids coagulate 
in the vesicles and terminal bronchioles, and the coagulum 
contains many white and some red blood-cells. 

The lung is of a dark reddish hue, often passing into 
grey. It is much heavier than in the first stage, and 
is increased in size, so as to be often marked by the 
ribs. 

It is quite solid, sinks in water, and cannot be artificially 


2) (ok r 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 157 


inflated ; does not crepitate under the fingers, and is very 
friable, breaking down readily with a soft fracture. The 


cut surface has a distinctly granular appearance, seen espe- 


cially when the lung-tissue is torn. This appearance is 
due to the coagulated matter which plugs up the alveoli. 

During this stage there appears to be but little alteration 
in the walls of the vesicles, or in the epithelium lining 
them ; the latter, however, is usually swollen and granular, 
and the alveolar walls often have a few leucocytes adhering 
to them. The pleura covering the solid lung is always more 
or less inflamed, and is opaque and coated with an exudation 
of lymph. | 

In the third stage, or that of grey hepatization, there is 
continuance of the emigration of the white cells, which © 
escape from the vessels and gradually accumulate in the 
pulmonary alveoli. The epithelial cells lining the alveolar 
walls become more swollen and granular, and their air- 
vesicles become filled with cells, so that the fibrous exuda- 
tion is no longer visible as an independent material, as in 
the second stage. 

The cells soon undergo rapid fatty changes, and the fibrin- 


ous material breaks down. Thus the alveoli as usually seen 


are filled with granular elements, and their walls, though 
usually unaltered, may be partly disintegrated. The weight, 
density, and friability of the lung now become greater than 
in the stage of red hepatization, although the granular 
aspect of the cut surface is much less marked. 

The lung-tissue is soft and pulpy, and a purulent fluid 


_ exudes from the cut surface. 


The lung itself changes in colour from a dark red-brown 
to a grey or yellowish white. 

Terminations of Acute Pulmonary Inflammation :— 

(A.) Resolution.—This is by far the most common and 
favourable termination of croupous pneumonia. 


id8 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


(B.) Abscess.—This is a rare termination. When one or 
more abscesses are formed they may discharge themselves 
by the air-tubes, or may undergo caseous or calcareous de- 
generation. 

(C.) Gangrene.—This is a still rarer termination. It 
is due to extensive formation of coagula in the pulmonary 
and bronchial vessels, together with considerable hzemor- 
rhage into the pulmonary tissue, and is predisposed to by 
malhygienic conditions to which the animal may have been 
exposed. 

(D.) Chronic Pneumonia.—If the inflammation do not sub- 
side, and the exuded liquid become absorbed, the alveolar 
walls gradually become involved, and thickened by fibro- 
nucleated growth. 

2. PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN CATARRHAL OR 
BRONCHO-PNEUMONIA.—tThe inflammation of the pul- 
monary tissue is in this form always associated with catarrh — 
of the bronchi. 

Broncho-pneumonia may be caused firstly by the collapse of 
the lung-tissues from inflammation of the bronchial mucous 
membrane ; secondly, by direct extension of the inflamma- 
tion from the bronchi into the air-cells; and lastly, the in- 
flammation may originate in the air-vesicles themselves 
before the bronchi are attacked. In catarrhal pneumonia, 
the inflammatory products which fill the alveoli consist very 
largely of cells derived from the epithelium of the alveoli 
and from the bronchial mucous membrane. 

Exudation and emigration play a much less prominent 
part in the process than they do in croupous pneumonia. 

This form has been termed catarrhal pneumonia, from 
the preponderance of epithelial products, and from the 
association of the pulmonary with the bronchial inflam- 
mation. | 

Resolution is less readily effected in broncho-pneumonia 


vey SG 
, cee bgah* >, 

“fe 4 Oya phe 

ay ore . 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 159 


than in croupous pneumonia, and is sometimes so much 
prolonged that thickening of the bronchi and alveolar walls 
remain. ; 

3. PATHOLOGICAL CHANGES IN INTERSTITIAL OR 
CHRONIC PNEUMONIA.—tThis form, like all other chronic 
inflammations, is characterized by gradual increase in the 
connective-tissues of the organs, leading to induration of 
the textures and obliteration of the alveolar cavities. It is 
often associated with catarrh and dilatation of the bronchi, 
and sometimes with ulceration of the bronchial walls. 

The thickening of the connective-tissue has been observed 
in the pneumonia of glanders, in which the exuded materials 
break down into a thin purulent fluid. 

SYMPTOMS AND COURSE OF PNEUMONIA.—Inflam- 
mation of the lungs in the horse is mostly associated with 
bronchitis and pleurisy, though uncomplicated cases of true 
acute pneumonia do sometimes occur. 

In many instances, the first manifestation of this disease 
is the catarrh which accompanies or precedes the inflamma- 
tion of the lungs. Pneumoniais sometimes ushered in with 
a severe rigor, succeeded by a hot stage. The pulse is 
accelerated but very variable, and numbers usually from 
90 to 100 beats per minute. The artery is hard and full at 
the outset, or it may be soft and full. In some instances it 
is irregular, intermittent, or dicrotic. 

The temperature is raised and may read from 103° F. 
to as high as 106°. The skin and extremities are cold, 
and the visible mucous membranes are red and injected. 
The bowels are constipated, and the feces coated with 
mucus. 

The horse loses his appetite, and wanders to and fro in 
his box in a dull, dejected manner, showing no inclination 
to lie down. 

If the case be complicated with pleurisy, the breathing 


160 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


is more painful and abdominal; but in pneumonia not 
associated with pleurisy there are no signs of pain. 

There may be dull dry cough, but there is seldom much 
expectoration, though rusty or blood-stained, more or less 
viscid tenacious matter, is sometimes discharged through the 
nostrils in croupous pneumonia, whereas in bronchitis and 
catarrhal pneumonia the discharge is more or less purulent. 
The urine is lessened in amount, and there is excess of urea 
and diminution of salines, especially chlorides, which 
probably, as in man, reappear in the urine during conva- 
lescence in full amount. 

As the inflammation progresses the respirations, which at 
first were but slightly accelerated, gradually become more 
so, until the crisis, when they are much quickened. The 
breathing is also sometimes much accelerated in the conges- 
tive paroxysms, which are not at all infrequent during the 
progress of the malady. The febrile symptoms extend over 
a period of several days, or even longer, and then subside. 

Some authorities describe the temperature as gradually 
subsiding; but we have noted very many instances of acute 
pneumonia where the defervescence of the fever has occurred 
suddenly, the temperature falling by crisis from 105° 
or more to near the normal in the course of two or 
three hours. The pulse falls, the appetite returns, the 
secretion of urine is again abundant, and the animal is soon 
convalescent. 

Physical Signs.— Percussion reveals increased dulness in 
the second and third stages of ordinary acute pneumonia ; 
there is, however, usually no impairment of resonance in 
the first stage. 

In the early stages the respiratory murmur heard in 
ausculting the chest is harsher and louder than normally ; 
and abundant fine crepitations are heard during inspiration, 
and sometimes also in expiration. 


ew 
Nae 


My 4 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 161 


In the second stage the respiratory murmur is replaced by 
the very characteristic tubular or bronchial breathing. In 
some instances there is a total absence of breathing sounds 
in this stage, and the fine crepitations are not heard. 

In the third stage of an ordinary attack ending in resolu- 
tion, the bronchial breathing gradually gives place to crepi- 
tation of a moist coarse character, termed redux, or secondary 
crepitation, and this gradually passes into the ordinary 
bronchitic rales. 

Pleural friction may be heard in addition to the sounds 
due to the pneumonia, when this disease is complicated with 
inflammation of the pleural membranes. 

Acute pneumonia, especially when associated with bron- 
chitis, is said to be sometimes complicated with laminitis, 
or inflammation of the vascular structures of the feet. 

When pulmonary inflammation occurs as a secondary 
affection, especially when associated with some specific 
fever, or when the animal has been subjected to malhygienic 
and debilitating conditions, the attack is very apt to assume 
the adynamic or asthenic type, and is more likely to end in 
breaking down of the pulmonary tissues than in resolution. 

Under such circumstances the pulmonary inflammation is 
more of the catarrhal or lobular type, which is chiefly 
characterized by filling of the alveoli with cells derived from 
the epithelium lining them, and by the fact that exudation 
and emigration play a much less prominent part in the 
process than they do in croupous pneumonia. Catarrhal 
pheumonia terminates by gradual defervescence of the 
febrile symptoms, or lysis, as it is termed. 

Prognosis.—Is favourable in most instances. Pneumonia 
may prove fatal from the intensity of the fever in the early 
stages, and also during the stage of hepatization, from 
suffocation occurring as the result of the pathological 
changes. In double pneumonia, or inflammation of both 

13 


162 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


lungs, the prognosis must be very guarded, as it is far more 
frequently attended with a fatal result than is the single 
form. 

Secondary pneumonia (ceteris paribus) is more serious 
than inflammation of the lungs occurring as a primary 
affection. 

Treatment.—In the treatment of pneumonia, concerning 
which there is so much divergence of opinion, it 1s above 
all things necessary to consider the form of pulmonary in- 
flammation in each individual case ; the constitution of our 
patient ; and, finally, the condition, work, diet, and hygienic 
surroundings under which he has been placed. ‘The animal 
should be placed in a well-ventilated, but not. draughty, loose 
box. This is one of the first essentials in the treatment of 
pheumonia, as impure air, containing organic germs, is apt 
to cause the inflammation to take on a suppurative form. 
If possible, the temperature of the box should be kept at 
70° to 75° F. . 

The body should be clothed with rugs, and should be 
gently rubbed down occasionally with wisps of hay. 

Bleeding should be practised only under exceptional 
circumstances. For example, in treating heavy draught 
horses kept in very high condition, as many of the agri- 
cultural and dray horses are, and also plethoric horses of 
other breeds, when the dyspneea, or difficulty of breathing, 
is great, and the fever very high, it is our custom to 
remove from four to six quarts of blood. Under no cir- 
cumstances do we repeat the operation. 

Though practised formerly, and at the present day by 
some in almost all cases of acute lobar pneumonia, bleeding 
is not only of no advantage in many cases, but even positively 
harmful, and delays the convalescence of the horse, even 
though it may seem to relieve the dyspnoea for a time. In 
‘secondary pneumonia Oleeding should never be practised. 


DISEASES OF THE LUNGS. 163 


We may allow the horse as much tepid or cold water, if 
he prefer it, as he will take ; and with this object should 
leave a moderate supply by him. 

The diet should be laxative and nutritious : bran-mashes, 
oatmeal gruel, linseed gruel, hay in moderate quantity, and 
roots or grass may be allowed. After the subsidence of 
the fever, stronger nutritious diet should be substituted. 

During the fever, a draught containing five minims of 
Fleming’s tincture of aconite, four ounces of liquor ammoniz 
acetatis, one ounce of nitric ether, and two drachms of 
nitrate of potash, may be given every four hours, until the | 
acute symptoms begin to abate. We entirely concur with 
those authorities who hold that tartar emetic, digitalis 
and calomel are of no effect in curtailing the duration of 
the pyrexia, and that opium should only be given when the 
pheumonia is associated with pleuritic pain. Owing to the 
irritable condition of the bowels in pneumonia, active 
purgatives should never be given. If there be great consti 
pation, enemas or small doses of oil may be given. 

In the later stages, when the pulse is weak and dicrotous, 
and from the earliest stages when the inflammation is of 
the adynamic or asthenic type, stimulants are indicated. 

Six or eight ounces of whisky may be administered three 
times daily, and should be persevered with if it prove 
beneficial. If, on the contrary, the breathing becomes still 
more distressed, the treatment should be discontinued 
immediately. Bromide of ammonium and potassium are 
recommended by Williams as useful in moderate doses, 
having a calmative effect. 

During convalescence vegetable and mineral tonics are 
indicated. 

Finally, with regard to local applications : 

When the extremities are icy cold they may be rubbed 

ith stimulating applications of a non-irritating kind. 

11—2 


164 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Woollen cloths wrung out from hot water may be 
applied with great advantage around the chest, and should 
be renewed every two hours, or oftener, so long as the acute 
symptoms last.* 

The indiscriminate use of blisters and sinapisms to the 
chest is a practice to be deprecated. But we are of opinion 
that in many cases of pneumonia decided advantage is to 
be obtained by vesication. 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND, 


ASTHMA.—Definition.—Asthma is a morbid condition 
characterized by paroxysms of dyspneea, probably depending 
upon spasm of the circular muscles of the bronchi, and 
often accompanied by a wheezing noise in the respira- 
tion. 

Etiology and Nature.—The causes of asthma are 
heredity, direct and reflex nervous irritation, fatigue, over- 
work, and debility. Asthma bears a close resemblance in 
many points to broken wind, and appears to be due to 
spasm of the circular muscle-fibres of the bronchial tubes. 
If prolonged, asthma frequently terminates in that paralytic 
condition of the bronchial tubes, and in those changes in 
the structure of the pulmonary-tissue, constituting broken 
wind. | 

The latter condition may be aggravated by further spas- 

* Great care is necessary in the mode of application of hot rugs, and 
several methods have been suggested. In the first place, the hot pack 
should be closely applied, so that no cold air can pass between the rugs 
and the skin. In the next place, the temperature of the rugs should be 
as high as the animal will bear. A good method of applying this 
treatment is to obtain a piece of felt about an inch thick and a foot 
and a half wide, fitted with straps. After being well wrung out from hot 
water and applied closely to the chest, a waterproof lined with flannel 
should be strapped round the felt. A simpler method is the application 


of an ordinary blanket, folded three or four times, over which is placed 
a dry rug, the whole being fastened with a surcingle or plough line. 


| daca hd 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND. 165 


modic attacks, which gradually involve more of the bronchial 
tubes. | 

Asthma is by many regarded as an early stage of broken 
wind, but as many cases undoubtedly recover without 
passing into the more serious condition, we have thought it 
advisable to consider it separately. 

Symptoms.—Asthma is characterized by sudden spas- 
modic dyspnoea, which resembles that of broken wind in 
that the inspiration is easier than the expiration. The 
latter is usually of a jerky character, but has a less distinct 
double action than in broken wind. 

In asthma the wheezing is more distinct ; there is more 
exhaustion with less cough, which is not so hollow as in 
broken wind, but is short, quick, or suppressed. The 
suddenness of the paroxysms, their true spasmodic nature, 
their severity, their sudden accession and decline, and 
unaccountable disappearance, are marked features of 
asthma. 

The febrile disturbance is severe when the disease is fully 
developed, and the chest is fixed, as it were, and there is 
increased movement of the abdominal muscles. When the 
cough is severe, small pellets of mucus are discharged 
through the nostrils. 

If the chest be auscultated the wheezing noise is very 
distinctly audible in the anterior and lateral regions. The 
spasms may last a few days, or may extend over several 
weeks, and then disappear or pass imperceptibly into broken 
wind. 

Treatment.—The diet should be of a laxative nature, 
and if the cough is very severe the sides of the chest may 
be blistered with great advantage. 

The drugs of most value as internal remedies are digitalis, 
amyl nitrate, belladonna, lobelia, chloral hydrate, opium, 
and the bromides of potassium and ammonium. 


166 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Iodide of ethyl, used as an inhalation, is well worthy of 


trial. 
BROKEN WIND.—Definition.—Is a nervous, inflamma- 


tory disease, characterized by difficult and spasmodic breath-. 


ing, the inspiratory act being easily performed, the expir- 
atory being very prolonged, and accomplished by two 
apparent efforts. 

The dyspneea is constant, and though marked by remis- 
sions and exacerbations, is not truly intermittent, as in 
asthma, and the cough, spoken of as the ‘ broken-winded 
cough,’ is short and nervous. 

Indigestion, flatulence and. cardiac disease sometimes 
aggravate the dyspnoea. 

Nature and Etiology.—The exact nature of broken wind 
is still a disputed point. 

According to Professor Gamgee, broken wind is at first a 
purely nervous affection, dependent on an unhealthy con- 
dition of the digestive organs, and the pathological lesions 
are to be attributed to the effects of the nervous disease, 
which especially involves the pneumogastrics. He further 
attributes the condition of the digestive organs them- 
selves to improper dieting, or to constitutional predisposition 
to indigestion and tympanitis. 

With this view we entirely agree. 

According to others, the manifestations of the disease are 
held to be primarily due to emphysema, and other structural 
changes in the lungs. Now, although pulmonary emphy- 
sema together with alteration in the tissue of the air-cells 
are found in very many instances of broken wind, it must 
nevertheless be borne in mind that these changes are by 
no means always present, for in some cases there is no 
evidence of emphysema or other structural pulmonary 
lesion after death. 

And again, it is noteworthy that pulmonary emphysema, 


" 
i cad 
rash 
“G 


’ 
} 
; 
. 
t 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND. 167 


especially of the vesicular form, has been found in many 
horses which have not at any time shown symptoms of 
broken wind. 

Now, therefore, although it is probable that the amount of 
respiratory derangement bears a close relation to the ex- 
tent of the emphysematous condition of the lungs, we can 
nevertheless only regard these lesions as the occasional re- 
sult of some other diseased condition, and in no measure as 
the prime cause. | 

Regarding broken wind as dependent on disturbed inner- 
vation, traceable to derangement of the digestive system, 
the phenomena of this disease, and the variable pathological 
lesions found, may be readily accounted for. 

Between the sub-epithelial mucosa and the submucosa of 
the small bronchial tubes there is a continuous layer of 
circular non-striped muscular tissue. This layer is especially 
conspicuous and important in the smaller microscopic 
bronchi (Klein), and by contracting aids the expulsion of 
tidal air from the lungs in expiration. 

This muscle in broken wind is first spasmodically con- 
tracted, and then afterwards becomes paralyzed, and under- 
goes degenerative changes. ‘This is owing to the irritation 
set up by indigestible food acting on the gastric branches of 
the pneumogastrics, and reflected through the pulmonary 
branches of the same nerves. This spasmodic contraction 
or paralysis arrests both the respiratory acts, especially the 
expiration, which becomes double, and requires a double 
contraction of the abdominal muscles to force out the 
air from the distended air-cells and now inactive bronchial 
tubes. 

Round-chested horses sometimes become broken-winded 
without any apparent cause, and difficulty in expiration may 
be attributed in such cases to the limitation of the thoracic 
contraction. It will easily be seen that when the shape of 


168 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


the chest is round the thoracic movements are more limited, 


and the horse will in consequence not be able to take deep 
inspirations or make strong expiratory efforts. 

The nervous or functional derangement of the bronchial 
tubes and air-vesicles is soon succeeded by structural 
changes. The latter become inflated, and thus the circula- 
tion in the capillary blood-vessels is impeded, and the 
nutrition of the bronchial mucous membrane and muscles, 
and the walls of the vesicles themselves, becomes impaired 
(Williams). 

Degeneration of these structures now follows, and the 
lungs become more and more emphysematous, the air- 
cells are dilated, their walls are stretched, and air now 
becomes intercalated among the connective-tissue of the 
lung. 

In this manner vesicular and interlobular emphysema may 
frequently be produced. ‘The right side of the heart may 
become hypertrophied and dilated in consequence of these 
changes in the lung structure. 

The dyspncea of broken wind seems to result from the 
emphysematous condition of the lung, as well as from general 
impairment of the contractile power of the pulmonary 
organs. . 

Having now reviewed the proximate causes of broken 
wind, we may now consider the more remote causes. 

They are: 

(1.) Heredity.—The offspring may inherit the same 
bodily conformation and temperament as their parents, and. 
thus be more liable to become similarly affected. 

(2.) Dietetic.—Defective dietetic conditions are largely 
responsible for the production of broken wind. As the 
diet of the coarser breed is frequently innutritious and 
bulky, and the animals often worked after a heavy meal 
with full allowance of water, they are more frequently 


ON ae eee -- 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND. 169 


affected with this disease than better bred horses which are 
more carefully attended to. 

Professor Robertson says that chopped hay is especially 
liable toi induce broken wind, and has noticed in some 
districts that while the agricultural horses were fed on oats, 
with hay or oat straw, the fodder being given in full supply, 
broken wind was unknown, but that when the extensive 
use of chopped hay and oat-straw was adopted, this disease 
became comparatively common. 

(3.) Changes left by Previous Diseases.—Those changes 
in the lung tissue which arrest the contractile power and 
action of pulmonary air-tubes may cause broken wind. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms in confirmed cases of broken 
wind are unmistakable, but when not so fully developed 
the disease may be occasionally overlooked. 

The inspiratory movement is performed rather quickly 
and with ease. The expiratory movement is much pro- 
longed, difficult, and accomplished by two apparent efforts. 
It begins by a rapid contraction and upward movement of 
the posterior walls of the abdomen, and is suddenly stayed 
before the act is completed, and then continued slowly by 
an upward and forward movement of the abdominal 
muscles. 

The cough of broken wind is characteristic, being short, 
of little force, and suppressed, and seems to be ejaculated 
with a kind of grunt through the upper part of the trachea 
(Blain). When the animal is in fair condition, the cough 
generally occurs only at long intervals, and rarely in 
paroxysms ; but at the commencement of the disease, and 
when the horse is excited from any cause, or during exer- 
cise, it is apt to break out in paroxysms. 

In many instances cough is one of the first indications of 
broken wind. 

After feeding, the symptoms are more severe, and they 


170 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


are liable to exacerbations from extremes of heat and cold, 
and other atmospheric changes. 

The chest is rounder than it should be, and the thoracic 
movements are much impaired, while the movements of 
the abdomen are violently put into action during a paroxysm 
of cough. 

In well-developed cases the loud sonorous wheezing 
noise may be distinctly heard while near the animal. If 
the chest be carefully auscultated, rhonchus and sibilus 
will be audible all over the chest, but the sounds vary 
much in character, even in the same animal, at different 
times. 

The respiratory murmur is diminished or absent. In the 
inspiration a ‘cooing rhonchus or friction sound’ is 
heard ; whereas a weak crepitus is audible in the pro- 
longed expiration. Percussion reveals increased resonance 
in various parts of the chest. In confirmed eases the di- 
gestive organs are weak and easily deranged, the bowels 
are tympanitic, and borborygmi are frequent. The horse 
is debilitated and unthrifty, and the coat is often harsh, 
dry, and scurfy. When worked, he is easily fatigued, and 
perspires easily, and the bowels are generally loose. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The pathological lesions found after 
death, which is in most cases due to some other disease or 
to. accident, are very variable in character. 

The organs in which the changes are most frequently met 
with are the lungs, heart, stomach, and intestines. 

If death occurs during the early stages, no. marked 
change may be found anywhere, though in some instances 
the lungs are slightly paler, and have greater buoyancy 
when floated in water than normal pulmonary tissue. 

When the disease has existed for a long time, the usual 
pathological lesions which may be found in the lungs are 
interlobular and vesicular emphysema, thickening of the 


ASTHMA AND BROKEN WIND. val 


walls of the small bronchi, hypertrophy of the mucous 
membrane of the larger tubes, and pallor of the pulmonary 
parenchyma. 

Vesicular emphysema consists in permanent dilatation 
and enlargement of the infundibula and air-vesicles in 
larger or smaller areas of the lungs. As the process 
continues, communications are established between the 
adjacent groups of air-vesicles by atrophy and degeneration 
of their walls. 

In this form of emphysema little vesicles containing air 
may be seen beneath the surface of the serous covering of 
the lung. 

Interlobular emphysema is due to distension with air of 
the connective-tissue between the separate vesicles and the 
air-tubes. 

In most cases of broken wind the heart, especially the 
right side, is hypertrophied and dilated, and is heavier and 
more bulky than normally. 

The stomach is much dilated, and its walls stretched, and 
in old-standing cases similar changes may sometimes be 
found in the intestinal tract. 

Treatment.—Above all things, it is essential that the 
diet should be carefully attended to. The food should be 
nutritious and digestible, and in moderate quantity, and the 
water-supply should be well regulated. The symptoms of 
broken wind may be ameliorated by all remedies which 
increase the general condition and improve the digestive 
powers. 

Arsenic, in the form of Fowler’s solution, which may be 
given in the drinking-water, is especially recommended. 
Nux vomica and vegetable bitters may be given in addi- 
tion. 

- The arsenic may at first be given in moderate doses 
twice daily for two or three weeks, and then once a day for 


172 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


a similar period, and then finally once every alternate 
day. 

Purgatives in moderate doses, when occasionally ad- 
ministered, are beneficial in regulating the action of the 
bowels. 

It is well known that some unprincipled persons adopt 
special measures in order to pass off a broken-winded 
animal for sale. 

With this object they allow little or no food and water, 
and give the animal a sharp trot, in order that the bowels 
may be emptied. 

They administer also various drugs, such as digitalis, 
opium, and other agents which have a temporary sedative 
effect, and in this manner have deceived many persons. 


PLEURITIS, OF INFLAMMATION OF THE 
PLEURAL MEMBRANE. 


Definition.—Pleurisy is inflammation of the visceral and 
parietal layer of the pleural membrane, and is termed 
primary (idiopathic), or secondary when depending upon 
some other disease of primary or general nature. 

Etiology.—Pleurisy is due to 

(1.) Eatension of the inflammatory action to the pleura, from 
contiguous or neighbouring parts. 

For example, pleurisy is frequently associated with, or 
supervenes on, pneumonia, bronchitis, and also cardiac and 
pericardiac diseases. 

The pleural membranes are especially liable to be in- 
volved in this way when the primary disease is of an 
epizootic nature. 

(2.) Irritation from injury or morbid growths. 
~ Wounds penetrating the thoracic walls, or fractured ribs, 
are apt to set up inflammation of the pleural membrane. 


PLEURITIS. {73 


The accumulation of fluid in the pleural sac, and the develop- 
ment of morbid growths in contact with the membrane, are 
also liable to set up pleurisy. 

(3.) Eaposure to cold and damp and sudden atmospheric 
changes. 

(4.) Certain enzootic and epizootic fevers and other constitu- 
tional diseases. | 

For example, pleurisy is a frequent concomitant of some 
of the specific fevers, as, for example, influenza, and of con- 
stitutional diseases, as rheumatism, suppurative phlebitis and 
pyemia. 

Symptoms.—The fever of acute pleurisy is ushered in by 
a slight chill or by an actual rigor. The animal may be 
restless, and show signs of pain, aggravated by breathing, 
which, though accelerated, is performed carefully. The 
pain is increased when the horse is moved round, and the 
chest wall is very tender to pressure or when percussed, and 
the expression is anxious and indicative of great pain. The 
pulse is increased in frequency, but its ratio to the breath- 
ing is only slightly disturbed, and is hard and more incom- 
pressible than in pneumonia. The temperature is raised to 
103° or 104°, the mouth is hot and dry, but the expired air 
is not so heated as in pneumonia. 

In the inspiratory act the ribs are fixed, and in conse- 
quence of this there may be observed a furrow on the line 
of demarcation, called the pleuritic ridge. This extends 
from the bottom of the posterior part of the chest, and 
runs obliquely in an upward and backward direction to 
the anterior spine of the ilium. Cough is a frequent 
symptom of pleurisy. Itisshorter and more painful than in 
pneumonia, and is attended with little or no expectoration. 

If the chest be examined a friction sound, or ‘dry leather 
creaking,’ as it is sometimes termed, may beheard. Thisis 
owing to the rubbing of the two pleural surfaces together. 


174 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


This sound appears as if close under the ear, and as the 
lung moves to and fro it is consequently double. It is not 
heard if the breathing cease, and the area over which it is 
audible may be very limited. 

The friction may in many instances be felt by placing 
the hand over the involved area of the chest-wall. The 
vesicular murmur is weakened, and percussion in this dry 
stage reveals nothing. 

The inflammation may now subside, with the effusion of 
very little lymph, in which case the friction sound passes 
away. If, on the other hand, the fluid gradually accumulates, 
in this case also this sound disappears, as the two roughened 
surfaces are separated by a layer of fluid. » 

When absorption of the fluid takes place, the two layers 
come together again, the sound is heard again, and is called 
‘redux friction.’ 

With the effusion of fluid the more active febrile 
symptoms and pain abate, the temperature may fall a little, 
the pulse is less jarring, and the pleuritic ridge less distinct. 

If the effusion now accumulate in very large amount, the 
symptoms become more serious ; the pulse is increased to 80 
beats or more per minute, and is of smaller volume, and may 
be irregular in rhythm and volume. The respirations become 
more laboured, and the difficulty of breathing may be very 
great ; the flanks heave, and there is flapping of the nostrils. 

This dyspnoea is to be attributed to compression of the 
structure of the lung by the accumulated fluid, which, if 
not absorbed, is spoken of as dropsy of the chest, or hydro- 
thorax. 

The animal’s head is generally protruded, and dropsical 
swellings appear in various parts. ‘They are usually first 
noticed along the inferior part of the thorax, spreading 
along the floor of the abdomen, and may at length involve 
the limbs. 


PLEURITIS. 175 


Prognosis.— Mild cases of pleurisy generally recover in a 
few days to a week. The more serious cases, however, 
_ where there is much effusion of lymph, are of longer dura- 
tion, and though the prognosis is, in most cases, favourable, 
yet the changes in the pleural membrane, and the adhesions 
formed between the two layers, often continue for life. 

Cases of pleurisy associated with specific influences are 
liable to be much protracted, or even prove fatal from the 
effused lymph becoming purulent. This condition is termed 
empyzma. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The inflammatory process commences 
in hyperemia of the pleuralmembrane. Exudation of fluid 
and blood-cells into the pleural cavity soon follow. 

Gradually the surfaces become opaque, roughened, and 
very vascular, and covered over with a fibrinous layer, 
whilst more or less fluid transudes into the cavity. 

The exudation from the vessels forms a soft, elastic 
membranous or reticulated coating, enclosing many cells in 
its meshes, 

In this way the opposed surfaces of the pleural membrane 
may be glued together. 

The exuded liquid varies considerably in amount, and is 
always turbid, in this respect differing from the non- 
inflammatory effusions. 

It contains flakes and masses of coagulated fibrin, and 
many cells, which in the early stages are almost entirely 
emigrants. . 

If now the inflammation subsides, and the effused fluid is 
not sufficient to prevent the two surfaces coming into con- 
tact, they may become adherent, the union being effected 
by the formation of connective-tissue. If, however, the 
inflammation is severe, or there is much effusion, organi- 
zation and adhesion cannot be effected. 

The presence of much fluid interferes with its own 


176 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


absorption by pressing upon and impeding the circulation 
in the blood-vessels and lymphatics, and thus the two 
surfaces are kept apart ; but when the liquid is absorbed, the 
two surfaces may then grow together. 

When the inflammatory action does not subside, or is of 
a very severe type, or depends upon some specific disease, 
pus may be formed and accumulate in the pleural sac. As 
the connective tissue becomes involved, granulation-tissue 
is formed, and may continue to generate pus, and discharge 
it into the pleural sac. The membranes become thickened, 
and the new tissue contracts in its organization, producing 
more or less retraction of the chest-wall. When the effusion 
has been very great, the pulmonary tissue is found much 
compressed, and when incised is tough, pale and dry. 

The pleura of both sides may be involved, but usually the 
inflammation is confined to one, more frequently the right. 

Treatment.—The horse should be placed in a loose box 
well ventilated, but of equable temperature, and should be 
warmly clothed with rugs. The diet should be at first 
nutritious, and such as is calculated to keep the bowels in 
regular action. As in pneumonia, bleeding is not recom- 
mended, except under very special circumstances. When 
the pleuritic attack is of an acute sthenic type, and not associ- 
ated with any other constitutional disease, moderate bleed- 
ing in the early stages is recommended by some eminent 
authorities. The removal of from four to six quarts of blood 
under such circumstances is said to be followed by marked 
benefit and relief of the acute symptoms. We, however, 
do not practise bleeding under any circumstances in pleurisy, 
unless, indeed, the attack is associated with acute inflam- 
mation of the lungs. Internally, saline febrifuges may be 
administered, as in pneumonia, and if the pain be great, 
tincture of opium may be given in addition. Fleming’s 
tincture of aconite is a very valuable {remedy in the acute 


PLEURITIS. 177 


stage, and may be given in five or six minim doses every 
four hours. In cases where the abdominal pain is great, 
some authorities recommend the injection of forty minims 
of solutio morphiz hydrochloratis hypod. (B.P.) into the 
subcutaneous tissue at the point of the sternum. 

Woollen cloths wrung out from hot water and applied 
round the chest, as in pneumonia,* are of great service in 
pleurisy also. They should be applied for about two hours 
continuously, and should be renewed four or five times 
daily, as long as the acute symptoms last. 

If after abatement of the severe febrile symptoms the 
animal seems to make no progress towards recovery, but 
still breathes with difficulty, and the temperature remains 
high, stimulating liniments applied to the chest are recom- 
mended as very useful. 

About four ounces of whisky, or other alcoholic liquor, 
may be given also under these circumstances three times 
daily, and if we have any reason to suspect the accumula- 
_ tion of liquid in the pleural sac, one drachm of potassium 
iodide may be given with the drinking-water two or three 
times a day. 

In those cases where debility follows the acute symptoms, 
quinine and salts of iron may be given in addition to the 
above remedies. 

When the effusion is extensive, and, although all thera- 
peutic measures have been taken, remains unabated after 
three weeks or so, thus interfering seriously with the respira- 
tion, it is advisable to perform the operation of paracentesis 
thoracis, in order to relieve the pressure of the fluid on the 
lungs. 

Some authorities have highly recommended cantharides 
in doses of three to six grains, with half a drachm of digitalis 


* Vide ‘Treatment of Acute Pneumonia,’ page 162. 
12 


178 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE, 


and two drachms of nitrate of potash in the form of a ball, 


given twice daily for a week. 

But, presuming that after the administration of the 
therapeutic agents the effusion rather tends to increase than 
to become lessened in amount, we should not delay the 
operation. We may use the ordinary trochar and canula, 
or pneumatic aspirator, and should puncture the chest-wall 


in the eighth or ninth intercostal space at a point midway 


between the upper limit of the fluid and the bottom of 
the pleural cavity. 

It is not necessary to remove all the fluid, as after the 
escape of a fair quantity the rest may become absorbed by 
the vessels, through which the circulation again passes 
freely. 

If necessary, the operation may be repeated in a couple 
of days. 

Tonics with nitric ether may be given after the opera- 
tion, and the bowels should be regulated by laxative diet, 
which should be of a nutritious character, and if necessary, 
mild doses of oil, or other aperient, may be given in 
addition. 


- 
" adh. bent oe - > dul f P 
7 we aa eee, eee ee eS ee 8 


CHAPTER VI. 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 


PHYSICAL EXAMINATION OF THE HEART 
AND PERICARDIUM. 


DISEASES of the heart and pericardium, though of rare 
occurrence in the horse as compared with man, are never- 
theless of great importance, and are by no means of 
unfrequent occurrence. In examining the heart, the 
methods of inspection, palpation and auscultation are 
adopted, as in the detection of diseases of the respiratory 
organs. 

In the horse the heart is not so accessible for examin- 
ation as in man, and in consequence ‘of the ponderous 
shoulder closing in upon the keel-shaped thorax we are 
not able to distinguish the heart-sounds at different parts, 
and to determine the space filled by the organ, however 
large it may be’ (Gamgee). 

Thus the difficulties to be encountered in the detection 

of changes in the heart of the horse are far greater than in 
man. , 
We may firstly determine, in an examination of the 
heart, the nature of the impulse, and secondly the cha- 
racter of the sounds heard on listening over the cardiac 
area, 


180 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


1. CARDIAC IMPULSE.—The impulse of the heart may 
be felt by placing the hand directly upon the left side of 
the chest, immediately below the elbow. It is more distinct 
in flat-sided and thin animals, and less so, or even absent, 
in round-chested and fat ones. The impulse may be 
altered in position and area, in force, in character, and in 
rhythm. 


(A.) In position and area.—It may, owing to abdominal — 


distension, be displaced forwards and upwards, or it may, 
owing to collection of fluid in the pericardium or chest, be 
displaced upwards and laterally. 

The area over which the impulse is felt is ‘extended’ in 
cardiac hypertrophy, and in adhesions of the pericardium to 
the chest-walls. 

It is very feeble, though extended, in pericardial effusion. 


(B.) In force and character.—The impulse is more forcible, - 


and sometimes extended over a larger area, in most cases 
of hypertrophy, with dilatation and incompetence of the 
valves. In these cases it is rather slow and steady, and 
occasionally appears to be produced not only when the 
heart contracts, but when it commences to dilate. This. 
latter is called diastolic impulse. 

Diminished impulse indicates feebleness of the heart. 
This may be due to degeneration, or to weakness of the 
heart owing to thinning of the walls or to general disease 
of the system. 

It is also diminished in effusion into the sac of the 
pericardium, and may be lessened owing to pericardial 
adhesions. | 

(C.) In rhythm.—May be irregular in force, at one time 
strong, at another weak, or it may be irregular in time or in 
character. 

2. CARDIAC SOUNDS IN HEALTH AND DISEASE.— 
When the ear is placed over the cardiac area, two sounds 


/ 
bid oon a ri ~ 
. RP IEE! PPX ads tte aN he 


oua wikis 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 181 


are audible in health. They may be best heard by extension 
of the left fore-leg, and by pulling forward the humerus as 
far as possible. 

They differ in character, and have been compared to the 
two syllables ‘lab’ and ‘dup,’ the first being longer and heavier 
(lab), the second, which follows quickly after a short interval, 
being shorter and sharper (dup). After the second sound 
follows another longer interval. 

The first sound is complex, and although in part due 
to the closure of the auriculo-ventricular valves, other 
factors appear to be necessary for its normal production, 
such as a healthy condition of the muscular tissue of the 
heart and of the blood. It is heard during the first part of 
the contraction or systole of the heart. 

The second sound is chiefly due to the closure of the 
semilunar valves in the aorta and pulmonary arteries, and 
corresponds in time to the first part of the diastole, or period 
of dilatation. 

In investigating the heart’s action in disease, we have to 
consider firstly the two sounds, and secondly the two 
intervals by which the sounds are separated. In health 
there is no sound audible during the intervals. 

The natural sounds may be modified in disease, and fresh 
sounds may be heard. These fresh sounds are termed 
murmurs, and although they may replace the normal sounds, 
they always do something more, i.¢., they always occupy 
part of the interval as well. The natural sounds may be 
altered in intensity, in duration, in rhythm, in pitch (high- 
pitched and clear, or low-pitched and muffled), and finally in 
some cases they are absent altogether. 

Murmurs may be heard when both sounds are present, 
or when one or both of the sounds is absent. The terms 
used to describe murmurs are soft, blowing, loud, faint, harsh, 
grating and rasping. 


182 . MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Cardiac murmurs are divided into two groups, endocardial 


and exocardial. 
(A.) Endocardial Murmurs.— Murmurs in the heart are 


called organic when they depend upon some structural 


change in the heart, and inorganic when no such change 
exists. As the heart is continually contracting and dilating, 
they fall further into two groups, systolic and diastolic 
murmurs. 

Murmurs in the heart or vessels are due to eddies set up 
in the blood; they are heard when a current of fluid passes 
through a narrow orifice into a larger space. In the heart, 
so long as the normal relation exists between the size of 
the orifices and that of the cavities of the ventricles, mur- 
murs are not produced ; but when the relation is disturbed 
murmurs are likely to arise. : 

They may depend upon dilation of the cavities into which 
the blood is passing, the orifices being unaltered, or to 
changes in the condition of the orifices, the cavities remain- 
ing natural. These conditions are usually associated. A 
murmur heard during the systole of the heart, called a 
ventricular systolic murmur, may be due to abnormalities in 
the auriculo-ventricular valves, or in the arterial orifices. 
When occurring at the auriculo-ventricular orifice, the mur- 
mur is owing to the imperfect closure of the valves during 
the contraction of the heart, so that some of the blood, in- 
stead of passing through the arterial orifices, passes back, 
or regurgitates into the auricles. In these cases it isa 
murmur of regurgitation. 

When occurring at the orifice of the aorta, or pulmonary 
artery, the systolic murmur is due to thickening or other 
changes in the semilunar valves causing constriction of 
the orifice, and thus impeding the onflow of blood, 

In these cases it is a murmur of constriction. 

In the horse the systolic murmur is generally very loud 


+ 
J 
t 
an 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 183 


and high-pitched, especially when associated with hyper- 
trophy of the ventricles. It has been heard in mitral in- 
sufficiency consequent upon dilatation of the left ventricle, 
and also where the mitral valves are thickened or otherwise 
changed, and where large collections of fibrinous clots have 
been found among the corde tendinea. In disease of the 
tricuspid valve it has also been detected. 

Murmurs heard during the diastolic period, known as 
ventricular diastolic murmurs, are likewise due either to 
disease of the auriculo-ventricular valves or of the arterial 
orifices. 

When occurring at the auriculo-ventricular valves the 
murmur is due to the passing of the blood from the 
auricle into the ventricle through a constricted orifice, due 
to disease of the tricuspid or mitral valves. It is a murmur 
of constriction. 

When occurring at the arterial orifices it 1s due to regur- 
gitation of the blood from the aorta or pulmonary artery 
into the ventricles, owing to the insufficient closure of the 
semilunar valves. 

Murmurs may be heard both during diastole and systole, 
in which case they are said to be double. 

The usual pathological changes causing the double mur- 
mur in the horse are aortic insufficiency and mitral con- 
striction. 

(B.) Exocardial Murmurs.—The healthy pericardium is 
smooth, and thus no sound is produced when the opposed 
surfaces of the serous membrane come in contact. 

When, however, the pericardium is roughened, as it is 
when inflamed, a sound is produced. This is pericardial 
friction. | 

It is rough, rubbing, or grating in character, and being 
synchronous with the heart’s action, is nearly always 
double, though it may be heard during systole or diastole 


184 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


only. It appears superficial, and as though close under | 
the ear. 

When much effusion into the sac follows the dry stages of 
inflammation, the sound is no longer produced, owing to 
the separation of the roughened surfaces by the fluid. 

When the pleura over the pericardium is inflamed, the 
movement of the heart may cause a friction by the rubbing 
of the two layers of the pleura. This is pleuro-pericardial 
friction, its origin being in the pleura over the peri- 
cardium. | 


GENERAL OBJECTIVE SYMPTOMS OF CAR- 
DIAC DISEASE. 


Palpitation. — Palpitation, or tumultuous rhythmical 
action of the heart, is a common symptom in functional and 
organic disease of the heart or pericardium. 

It occurs when there is more or less sudden demand of 
work from the heart in excess of its powers, as in acute or 
chronic diseases of the heart and pericardium, anzemia and 
debility, in altered conditions of the quantity and quality of — 
the blood, as in anzemia and plethora, and in some specific 
and other general diseases. 

If the additional strain put upon the heart be sudden 
and temporary, the result is only a transient attack of 
palpitation. If persistent, hypertrophy may be induced. 

It may also be caused by nervous influences. The latter 
may be of reflex origin, as when palpitation accompanies 
acute or chronic intestinal disease ; or it may be of central or 
intrinsic origin. 

Palpitation may be continuous, or may occur at intervals 
only. Itis generally accompanied by increased frequency 
and apparent force of the heart’s action, and may be regular 
or irregular in force and in rapidity. 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 185 


Pain is rare, but there is usually anxiety and hurried 
breathing. 

In paroxysmal attacks depending upon nerve-irritation 
and disturbance, there may be fainting and actual syncope. 
- Treatment of Palpitation—When palpitation is depen- 
dent upon anzmia and general debility, tonics, especially 
salts of iron, are indicated, and the diet should be nutritious 
and digestible. 

When it results from nervous excitement, quietude should 
be enjoined. Internally, digitalis and potassium, bromide 
and belladonna, are valuable remedies. Chloric ether, 
opium, and hydrocyanic acid are also of great efficacy. 

In very bad cases, F'leming’s tincture of aconite, in 6 to 
8 minim doses, has proved very successful in the treatment 
of this complaint. 

When the palpitation is the. result of cardiac or pul- 
monary disease, it is treated in connection with the disease 
with which it is associated. 

Irregularity.—Irregularity of the heart’s action may 
affect either the rhythm or the force of the beat, and is of 
more serious importance than palpitation. It is probably 
closely related to defective nutrition of the substance of the 
heart itself. 

It is common in dilatation of the heart. 

Irregularity of force is common in the horse in incompe- 
tence of the mitral valves with dilatation of the left 
ventricle, 

Intermittence.—Intermittence of the heart’s action is a 
still more serious indication of cardiac failure than palpita- 
tion and irregularity. It is due to temporary arrest of the 
ventricular systole. It may arise from imperfect filling of 
the ventricle, as in fatty heart, or from great obstruction to 
the outflow of the blood, as in aortic obstruction. It may 
be of purely nervous origin. 


186 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Cyanosis is a condition very rarely met with. It only 
affects very young animals, and they only live a very short 
time. It is due to patency of the foramen ovale, and con- 
sequent mingling of arterial and serous blood. 

It is manifested by blueness of the visible mucous mem- 
branes, difficulty of breathing, and coldness of the surface. 


ACUTE AFFECTIONS OF THE HEART. 
ACUTE ENDOCARDITIS. 


Definition.—Is inflammation of the endocardium lining 
the cavities and valves of the heart. 

Etiology.—Acute endocarditis in horses is usually asso- 
ciated with pericarditis, and endo-pericarditis is the most 
frequently met of all acute diseases of the heart. It is 
especially observed in rheumatism, several specific fevers, in 
pyzemia, and many forms of septic poisoning. 

Acute endocarditis as a primary affection is probably 
very rare in the horse. Mr. C. Gresswell, of Nottingham, 
has, however, had several cases of this disease in young 
thoroughbred foals. 

Symptoms.—Inflammation of the endocardium is in 
most instances attended with pyrexia, increased frequency 
of the pulse, and dyspneea. When it follows in the course 
of rheumatic inflammation there is exacerbation of the 
febrile manifestations and obvious cardiac disturbance. 

The heart’s action is tumultuous, and apparently forcible, 
but the pulse is feeble. In listening to the chest we may 
hear pericardial friction, if the outer serous membrane is 
inflamed, and cooing murmurs, though sometimes audible 
in endocardial inflammation, are so frequently disguised by 
other abnormal sounds, as not to be relied upon in forming 
our diagnosis. 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 187 


Clonic spasms of the superficial muscles of the anterior 
part of the body are present in many cases of endo- 
carditis. : 

Owing to the uncertain character of the symptoms, endo- 
carditis is not easily diagnosed from pericarditis. 

Sequele.—Inflammation of the endocardium is usually 
followed by structural changes of the valves, and this change 
induces dilatation and alteration in the cavities of the heart. 
Weakened cardiac action and dropsical effusions may follow 
in various parts of the body. 

Morbid Anatomy —The endocardium consists of a layer 
of connective-tissue with an endothelial lining. The in- 
flammation is more marked round the orifices and in connec- 
tion with the valves and their appendages, and, in rheu- 
matism, particularly in the valves. During the inflammatory 
process the deeper layers of the endothelium become rapidly 
infiltrated with young cells, and the inter-cellular substance 
becomes softened and destroyed, and thus there is formed a 
soft tissue composed entirely of cells. This new tissue 
projects through the endothelium in the form of minute 
granulations and vegetations upon the surface of the softened 
valve. There is also more or less increase of vascularity in 
the external endothelial layers; but the above changes 
occur in an almost non-vascular tissue. 

The roughened granulations act as foreign bodies, and 
thus frequently induce coagulation or deposition of fibrin 
upon themselves. 

The cell infiltration may break down, and form an endo- 
thelial ulcer or a small abscess. The inflammatory process 
is generally, however, less intense and malignant. The 
granular valves may then adhere to each other or to an 
inflamed patch in the wall. The new cell growths become 
organized into a fibrinated structure, whilst in part it 
undergoes fatty and calcareous degeneration. 


188 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


These changes produce permanent thickening, rigidity, 
and shrinking of the valves, and consequent insufficiency 
or stenosis, or both. 

The new tissue may continue to grow after the process 
has subsided, and thus are produced vegetation and 
papillary excrescences on the valve. These consist of a 
lowly organized tissue, which tends to undergo fatty and 
calcareous changes. 

Treatment.—The treatment resolves itself chiefly into 
the treatment of the diseases with which the endocarditis is 
associated. 

Cardiac sedatives are indicated when the irritability and 
pain are great, but must be given with care. Bleeding is 
recommended by some; but as it probably only gives 
temporary relief, and probably favours coagulation and the 
deposition of the fibrin on the roughened surfaces, it is best 
not to adopt this measure. 

In cases where debility and exhaustion follow, stimulants 
in moderate doses are necessary. : 
MYOCARDITIS.—The muscular substance of the heart 
may be the seat of inflammation, whereby it becomes 
softened or, more rarely, indurated. Intense and concen- 
trated inflammations, leading to the formation of abscess, 
may occur as the result of a pyemic process. Myocarditis 
rarely occurs except in connection with disease of the 
endocardium and pericardium, whence the inflammation 
spreads to the muscular tissue itself. It is an occasional 
sequel of various acute fevers, and of pyzmia and other 

septic conditions of the blood. 

It gives no distinctive symptoms during life by which it 
may be recognised, but the heart’s action is weak and 
irregular. 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 189 


CHRONIC AFFECTIONS OF THE HEART. 


ENLARGEMENT OF THE HEART.—-Hypertrophy and 
Dilatation.— Enlargement of the heart may result from 
increase in size of the muscular walls, or from increase in 
the capacity of the cavities. When the heart is hyper- 
trophied without any alteration in the capacity of the 
cavities, the condition is termed simple hypertrophy. When 
there is increase of capacity of the cavities, without enlarge- 
ment or multiplication of the muscular elements or thinning 
of the walls, it is termed simple dilatation. When the 
muscular structure is increased, and there is also increase in 
the capacity of the cavities, it is termed ‘hypertrophy with 
dilatation,’ or eccentric hypertrophy. It is doubtful if hyper- 
trophy with diminution of cardiac capacity occurs, but it 
has been mentioned under the ‘term concentric hypertrophy. 

Etiology.—Hypertrophy with or without dilatation may, 
in most instances, be regarded as a compensatory condition, 
owing to some obstruction to the circulation. It may be 
induced by long-continued overwork ; and in hunters and 
racers hypertrophy, or hypertrophy with dilatation, is of 
frequent occurrence. Hypertrophy may also result from 
frequently recurring or persistent palpitation. 

The obstruction to the circulation may occur at the 
cardiac orifices, or at the orifices of the large arteries, 
especially at the mitral and aortic openings. The obstruc- 
tion to the blood-flow may be in the pulmonary circuit, as 
in bronchitis and emphysema, and occasionally it may be 
in other organs. Dilatation with hypertrophy is a frequent 
result of aortic or mitral incompetence, owing to the re- 
gurgitation of the blood. 

Symptoms.—Vary widely, according to the seat and 
extent of the enlargement, and to the diseases with which 
it is associated. 


190 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In many cases, where the hypertrophy is compensatory, 
there are nosymptoms. When the hypertrophy is ¢onsider- 
able and in excess of the dilatation, the arteries tend to 
become fuller, the veins less full, and the circulation is 
accelerated. The pulse, at first full, becomes feeble as the 
dilatation increases. ¢ 

The impulse of the heart is increased and is sometimes 
prolonged; and in very marked hypertrophy is often 
observable at a distance from the animal, and may be 
distinctly felt. 

The heart-sounds may be more intense, but are usually 
less distinct. , 

When dilatation is in excess, the veins tend to become 
over full, the arteries less full, and the circulation retarded. 
The pulsations are smaller, feebler, and more irregular or 
intermittent ; and there may be dyspnoea, especially when 
exertion is made. In advanced stages there is coldness of 
the extremities, and a tendency to cedema or dropsical effu- 
sions. The jugular venous pulse is most often noticed | 
when the right side is dilated. Solong as the hypertrophy 
keeps pace with dilatation there may be no symptoms ; but 
when the hypertrophy ceases to progress, while the dilata- 
tion increases, symptoms are soon manifested from impair- 
ment of the heart’s action, Exertion in this case is attended 
with much difficulty. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The heart is increased in weight and 
bulk, the relative extent of which depends upon the relation 
between the hypertrophy and the dilatation. The shape is 
also often modified according to the parts involved, and is 
generally rounder than natural. The auricles are much 
less frequently enlarged than the ventricles, and the left 
ventricle more often than the right. 

ATROPHY OF THE HEART.—Atrophy, or decrease of 
substance of the heart from diminution in the size or in the 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 191 


——_ 


number of the muscular elements, is general or partial. It 
may be attended by thinning of the walls and dilatation of 
the cavities, when it is called eccentric atrophy ; or it may 
occur without alteration in the capacity of the cavities, 
when it is called simple atrophy. There is much weakness 
with feeble cardiac impulse, which is felt only over a 
small area; but there are no diagnostic symptoms of this 
condition. 

CHRONIC VALVULAR AFFECTIONS. — Valvular 
disease may arise from acute or chronic endocarditis ; 
from atheromatous or calcareous changes; from enlarge- 
ment of the orifices; and, lastly, from congenital mal- 
formations. 

It has been already mentioned that disease of the valves 
may allow of regurgitation of blood owing to insufficient 
closure ; or may cause obstruction to the onflow of the 
blood, owing to constriction or partial blocking of the 
orifice, resulting from adhesion of the valves or thickening 
of the structures around the opening. 

Each orifice is then capable of each kind of disturbance : 
regurgitation and constriction. There may be theoretically, 
therefore, eight kinds of murmurs, viz. : (1) Aortic regurgi- 
tation and constriction ; (2) Mitral regurgitation and con- 
striction ; (3) Pulmonary regurgitation and constriction ; 
(4) Tricuspid regurgitation and constriction. 

Auscultation is attended with great difficulty in the horse, 
and, in consequence, our means of diagnosing valvular 
affections are far more limited than in man. 

Disease of the left side is more common than on the right. 
In disease of the valves of the left side, the pulse is altered 
in character and rhythm ; while in disease of the right side, 
the chief manifestations are in the venous circulation. 
Jugular pulsations are very commonly visible, and dropsical 
effusions and anasarcous swellings liable to follow. Yet it 


192 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


is to be remembered that, in disease of the left side, the 
right side may soon become disordered in consequence. 

In the horse, the mitral and aortic valves are more 
specially liable to be diseased. In many instances both 
valvesare involved simultaneously. Probably the commonest 
form of valve disease met with in the horse is aortic obstruc- 
tion and mitral regurgitation. During auscultation, if we 
are in doubt whether a murmur occurs during the systole 
or diastole, we may feel the pulse at the jaw or fore-arm 
while we listen. Ifthe murmur is sysfolic, 1t will of course 
be heard at the same time, or nearly so, as the pulse beat 
is felt; if diastolic, it will be heard between the beats of the 
pulse. 

Mitral Regurgitation.—At each systole of the left 
ventricle blood flows back or regurgitates into the left auricle. 
The pulmonary circulation thus becomes overloaded, and is 
subjected to increased pressure. This difficulty is met, for a 
time, by compensating hypertrophy of the right ventricle. 
Hence, during this stage there are no symptoms of ill-health, 
though there is not unfrequently difficulty of breathing 
during exertion. After a time the hypertrophy of the ven- 
tricle gives way to dilatation. Thus the engorgement and 
tension of the pulmonary vessels is increased and reflected 
back through the right side of the heart to the systemic 
veins, which now also become overloaded, just as they do 
from the first in cases of disease of the valve of the right side. 
In consequence of the mitral regurgitation being no longer 
compensated for by increased force of the right ventricle, the 
aorta now becomes under-filled. 

Hence symptoms of systemic venous congestion follow. 
Pulmonary complications with cough are sometimes present, 
the breathing is disturbed, and there is severe dyspnoea 
when the horse is much excited or during severe exer- 


tion. 


DISEASES OF THE CIRCULATORY SYSTEM. 193 


The pulse is small, feeble, and often irregular and inter- 
mittent. 

Mitral Obstruction.—The clinical history of mitral 

obstruction is similar to that of mitral regurgitation, with 
which it is in many cases associated. In the horse we do 
not know that the murmur characteristic of this disease in 
man has ever been distinguished. This murmurin man imme- 
diately precedes the systole, and is therefore termed pre- 
systolic, It is due to the passage of the blood from the left 
auricle through a constricted mitral orifice. 
Tricuspid Regurgitation.—In this disease, at each con- 
traction of the right ventricle blood passes back through 
the tricuspid valves into the right auricle, and thence into 
the venz cave and jugulars, which thus become rapidly 
dilated and overloaded. 

A reflux pulsation in the jugulars with each ventricular 
contraction is pathognomonic of tricuspid regurgitation. 

In this disease a systolic murmur is heard, as in mitral 
regurgitation, but we cannot distinguish the two murmurs 
in the horse. _ 

Aortic Obstruction.—When the aortic semilunar valves 
obstruct the onflow of blood through the orifice, a murmur 
is produced during systole. When they allow of regurgita- 
tion back into the ventricle, the murmur is diastolic. 

When both conditions are present, both murmurs are 
produced. In obstructive disease, the left ventricle hyper- 
trophies to overcome the resistance ; but after a while the 
mitral orifice, with the valves there, becomes involved, and 
the equilibrium breaks down. In consequence of this, the 
symptoms of mitral regurgitation are manifested. 

Aortic Regurgitation.—In this disease the blood-flow is 
retarded; for after every contraction of the left ventricle, 
part of the blood regurgitates back from the aorta into 
the ventricle. The left ventricle therefore hypertrophies, 

13 


194 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


in consequence of the increase of work thus thrown 
upon it. 

After a time the hypertrophy gives way to dilatation, owing 
to impaired nutrition and degeneration of the cardiac walls, 
arising from imperfect filling of the coronary arteries during 
the ventricular systole. 

Implication of the mitral valve follows after a while, 
and the symptoms of mitral regurgitation are manifested. 

The pulse in aortic regurgitation is sudden and jerky, and 
is termed the ‘ water-hammer pulse,’ or ‘ Corrigan’s pulse.’ 

In aortic obstruction the pulse is not materially altered. 

TREATMENT OF CHRONIC VALVULAR DISEASES. 
—The treatment of the valvular diseases can only be pallia- 
tive, and in most instances it is not an object to prolong life 
in horses incapable of exertion. Regulation of work, which 
should not be in excess of the powers of the animal, and good 
diet, are the first essentials in the treatment of cardiac diseases. 

Tonics, such as iron, nux vomica, and other vegetable tonics, 
are indicated in most cases, but we must,j in all cases, treat 
the symptoms as they arise. When there is great irritability 
of the heart, belladonna, bromide of potassium, and chloric 
ether are of service in alleviating the distressing symptoms. 
Digitalis is of great efficacy as a heart tonic, and is indicated 
whenever cardiac failure is threatening. 


DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF THE HEART. 


FATTY DEGENERATION OF THE HEART.—Under 
the term fatty degeneration are included two different patho- 
logical conditions. These are fatty metamorphosis, or 
degeneration proper, in which the fat is derived from the 
metamorphosis of the cardiac muscle, and fatty degeneration, 
where it is derived from the oleaginous, saccharine, or nitro- 
genous principles of the food. 


DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF THE HEART. 195 


These two conditions may occur together, and are not un- 
frequently associated with other abnormal conditions of the 
heart, as partial or general dilatation. 

Fatty Infiltration.—In health there is a certain quantity 
of fat covering the surface of the heart, beneath the visceral 
layer of the pericardium. Under certain circumstances—for 
example, from want of sufficient exercise—the fat tends to 
accumulate around the base and origin of the great vessels, 
and also to gradually insinuate itself between the muscle 
fibres. The fat is always more abundant near the 
surface. 

Fatty Metamorphosis.—This condition may affect the 
cardiac muscle throughout, or in portionsonly. The muscle 
becomes softer and more friable, and often breaks with a 
granular fracture. Itis more flabby, paler, and more opaque 
than normal cardiac muscle. ‘True fatty degeneration is 
‘mostly met with in cases of dilatation of the cavities with 
thinning of the walls of the heart. It is also a not uncom- 
mon result of aortic incompetence, in which disease the 
circulation in the coronary arteries is interfered with, and 
the heart muscle is badly nourished in consequence. 

Diffuse fatty degeneration sometimes occurs in acute 
specific fevers. 

There are no diagnostic symptoms of fatty change in the 
heart, though degeneration renders the organ weak and in- 
capable of performing any unusual exertion, or, if advanced, 
of even carrying on the normal circulation. 

CALCAREOUS DEGENERATION OF THE HEART.— 
Cases of calcareous change in the cardiac muscle of the horse 
are very rarely met with. Only two cases are recorded, 
and in each the right auricle only was calcified. 

RUPTURE OF THE HEART.—Rupture of the heart is 
very rarely met with. In most instances it is due to some 
previous pathological condition of the organ. The imme- 

13—2 


196 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


diate causes are over-exertion and shock, resulting from a 
fall or from direct violence to the chest, 

It is of most frequent occurrence in aged horses, after 
sharp exertion. 

The usual seat of the rupture is at the conus arteriosus of 
the left ventricle, where the tendinous ring unites the great 
aorta with the ventricle. 

Mr. Percival records an instance of rupture of the right 
auricle in the horse occurring shortly after a race. 

NEW FORMATIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THE 
HEART.-—The new formations met with most commonly 
in the heart of the horse are malignant and parasitic 
growths, cardiac polypi, and vascular tumours. 

The effects of these growths on the health of the animal 
vary chiefly in accordance with their situation, and also, but 
to a less extent, with their nature. 

Occasionally the heart is the seat of malignant growths, 
which though possibly originating in the organ itself, are 
with greater probability regarded as sequels of the general 
invasion of the system by cancerous growths. 

Hydatid cysts have been described in connection with 
the heart in cattle and sheep, and they may also occur in 
the horse. 

Single individuals of strongylus armatus have been found 
in the pericardial sac of young horses by Professor 
Robertson. 

Vascular tumours in the heart are due to dilatation of the 
veins and capillaries beneath the endocardium. 

Of all cardiac growths, the most frequently met with are 
the so-called fibrinous polypi, which seem to originate from 
the muscular tissues of the heart. They are composed of 
laminated fibrin, the central parts being more distinctly 
organized and fibrillated. 

Cardiac tumours cannot be diagnosed during life. 


DEGENERATIVE CHANGES OF THE HEART. 197 


ANGINA PECTORIS.—In man, angina pectoris (dy, to 
strangle ; pectus, the breast), or breast pang, is a disease of 
the heart characterized by paroxysmal attacks of neuralgic 
pain in the chest, and is rarely met with under 45 years of 
age. This affection is believed by Williams to affect the 
horse sometimes, and, indeed, from the frequent occurrence 
of heart disease in this animal, this is only what we might 
expect. This author describes a case in an aged horse 
brought to him for examination. For twelve months the 
animal had done very little work, owing to the fact that 
when excited by work he manifested severe agony in the near 
fore-limb. In this case the heart was manifestly diseased. 


DISEASES OF THE.PERICARDIUM. 
ACUTE PERICARDITIS. 


Definition.—Inflammation of an acute type affecting the 
pericardial membrane. 

Etiology.—Acute pericarditis may appear as a primary or 
idiopathic affection from cold, damp, exposure or fatigue. 
It is, however, most frequently met with in association 
with other diseases, rheumatic fever especially. It is also 
often associated with strangles, influenza, purpura, pyzmia, 
and other septic conditions of the blood. It may result 
from spreading of inflammation from the lungs and pleura, 
or from the irritation of new growths, or from parasites in 
the sac. 

Finally, it may be induced by wounds or by fractured 
ribs. 

Symptoms.— The symptoms of pericarditis are very 
variable, and when unassociated with general disease may 
be very indistinct and obscure. Generally pericarditis is 
met with in association with endocarditis, and in these 
cases the symptoms are very difficult to distinguish. 


198 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The disease, when severe, is usually ushered in with con- 
siderable fever. The pulse is short, hard, irritable, and 
accelerated, and the heart’s action is often irregular. Some- 
times the pulse is bounding and violent ; sometimes, when 
there is much effusion, itis feeble and fluttering. The respi- 
rations are accelerated ; the extremities are cold; cough is 
often present, and there is pain, especially during movement. 
In less severe cases there is less constitutional disturbance, 
and correspondingly less pathological change. 

Debility is sometimes very marked. 

Associated with the pericarditis, spasms of the superficial 
muscles have often been observed. These spasms or cramps 
are in most instances confined to the muscles of the pectoral 
region and neck, but occasionally, also, the posterior ex- 
tremities are affected. 

The friction characteristic of pericarditis in man is not 
always detected in the horse. When heard, it is a rasping, 
grating to-and-fro sound, synchronous with the cardiac 
action. 

If this sound be associated with a deeper seated murmur 
in the heart, endocarditis is also present. When the effu- 
sion supervenes the friction disappears, and is replaced by a 
dull churning noise of the heart movements. Ifthe effusion 
be considerable, the pulse becomes feeble, fluttering, and 
irregular. There may also be visible carotid and jugular 
pulsation, with great distress in the breathing, and cedema 
may appear in various parts. 

In influenza, pericarditis is a somewhat frequent complica- 
tion. 

The symptoms in this form of pericardial inflammation 
vary much, being sometimes well marked and sometimes 
very indistinct. They are best marked in cases where the 
lungs and pleura are free from disease. 

Prognosis.—Pericarditis may terminate in partial recovery 


DISEASES OF THE PERICARDIUM. 199 


with adhesions, in complete recovery, or in death (usually 
by syncope). The prognosis is not unfavourable except in 
very severe cases. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The anatomical changes in pericar- 
ditis vary considerably with the severity and nature of the 
attack. On the whole they resemble those already described 
in inflammation of the pleura. 

The effusion, which is sero-fibrinous, is usually consider- 
able, and when small may soon be absorbed. 

Complete restoration is rare, for more or less extensive 
adhesions and agglutination usually persist. In many cases 
the plastic material effused spreads over the surface of 
the heart, assuming a reticulated appearance of considerable 
thickness. 

In some cases the effusion is blood-stained, and in others 
it may mingle with pus. In the pericarditis of acute 
rheumatism and epizootic fevers the cardiac muscle and the 
endocardium are also generally involved. 

Treatment.—In the early stages of primary pericarditis, 
with a full hard pulse, Fleming’s tincture of aconite, with 
nitric ether and liquor ammonie acetatis is recommended in 
moderate doses. Ifthe pain continue unallayed, tincture of 
opium should be substituted for the aconite. Digitalis does 
not seem to have a beneficial action in pericarditis. In 
the early stages some recommend moderate bleeding, which 
they repeat a second time if necessary, or follow up the first 
abstraction of blood by the administration of Fleming’s 
tincture. Under no circumstances should bleeding be 
adopted, except to relieve urgent symptoms in the early 
stages, aS In pericarditis there is great tendency to early 
diminution of the cardiac power. 

Woollen cloths wrung out from hot water should be 
wrapped round the chest, as in pleurisy, and should not be 
re-applied for a couple of hours. During the intervals the 


200 — - MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


left.side may be well rubbed with some stimulating liniment 
containing tincture of opium. The legs should be carefully 
bandaged, and the food should be nutritious and easily 
digestible. After the early stages are over and effusion 
_ sets in, a cantharides blister applied over the cardiac region 
is very useful. Stimulants and tonics, such as the salts of 
iron, with diuretics or potassium iodide, may now be given 
internally. 

When the pericarditis is associated with rheumatism, the 
treatment does not materially differ from that above de- 
scribed. Colchicum is useful internally, but aconite or 
opium are perhaps preferable. Bicarbonate of potash and 
nitric ether may be given in addition; and the woollen 
cloths should be applied to the chest as in the idiopathic ~ 
variety. 

When associated with the specific fevers, ‘idicsieditis 
should not be treated apart from the general disease. 
Moderate blisters may be applied to the left side, and 
stimulants and potassium iodide given internally. When 
the fiuid in the pericardium remains unabsorbed, and there is 
in consequence serious interference with the heart’s action 
and great difficulty in breathing, the fluid should be removed 
by paracentesis or puncturing of the pericardial sac. 

HYDROPS PERICARDII.—Dropsy of the pericardium, 
or hydrops pericardii as it is termed, may follow an attack 
of subacute pericarditis, but in most instances it is part of 
a general dropsy. 

The fluid is purely serous, thus differing from that of 
acute pericarditis. There are usually no symptoms by which 
this condition can be diagnosed during life. 


CHAPTER VII. 
DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SYSTEM. 


GENERAL REMARKS ON DISEASE OF THE 
ALIMENTARY CANAL. 


DISEASES of the alimentary canal are in most instances due 
to dietetic errors. | 

We have already considered several diseases, diabetes, 
broken wind, oxaluria, azoturia, and others, which are also 
traceable to errors in feeding. Diseases of the alimentary 
tract are especially important from two points of view, for 
not only are they among the most common of all forms of 
diseases in the horse, but they are at the same time the 
most easily guarded against by careful management of the 
diet. 

In the horse the intestinal tract is more liable to disease 
than the stomach, whereas in the ox and sheep the stomach 
more frequently suffers. This is in all probability due to 
the fact that in the horse the stomach is much less complex 
than in ruminants, and is also smaller in proportion to the 
rest of the intestines than in the cud-chewing animals. 

In consequence of this the process of digestion begun 
in the stomach is largely completed in the intestines in the 
horse. 

Professor Williams points out the important fact that 
easily digested food taken in excess is liable to derange the 


PAY we 3 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


small intestines, whereas coarser and more indigestible food 
containing much woody fibre, as over-ripe hay, rye-grass 
and coarse straw, is more apt to accumulate in the large 
intestine, causing disordered action, inflammation, or even 
paralysis of the intestinal muscular tissue. The same 
authority also mentions that boiled food is apt to be re- 
tained in the stomach, and if given in excess may cause 
distension, inflammation, paralysis, and even rupture. 

Lastly, it should be remembered that it is not only 
the quality of the food which may set up disorders in the 
alimentary tract, but that irregularity in diet and full 
feeding after exhausting work are also very liable to induce 
disease. : 


SECTION I. 


DISEASES OF THE MOUTH AND THROAT. 


STOMATITIS.—Inflammation of the mouth occurs in 
several forms, and we have already considered a contagious 
disease of the horse in which the specific pustular formations 
have their special seat on the buccal membrane. 

Causes.—Stomatitis is most frequently met with in young 
animals, and is especially predisposed to by malhygienic con- 
ditions and improper dieting. It may be due to local irri- 
tation or to mechanical causes, and is sometimes produced 
by extension of morbid action in the parts near, or may 
follow disorders of the alimentary canal. 

It often occurs in animals debilitated by disease, and is 
in many instances traceable to certain vegetable fungi, or 
to a special acarus. The oidium albicans, one of the hypho- 
mycetes, has long been recognised as the active cause of 
‘some forms of stomatitis. 


ahi 


DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SYSTEM. 203 


Varieties and Symptoms :— 

Simple, or Catarrhal Stomatitis—This form 1s chiefly met 
with in foals, It first appears as small circumscribed red 
patches on the buccal membrane of the cheeks and roof of 
the mouth. These patches are covered with a yellowish 
film, which soon separates, and leaves a superficial erosion. 

The excoriated patches gradually coalesce, and thick 
saliva, mingled with the products of inflammatory action, 
accumulates in the mouth. There is an unhealthy feetid 
odour in the mouth, and the buccal membrane is somewhat 
thickened and congested. 

This form is occasionally seen in old animals, and in 
many instances is associated with disordered digestion. 

Vesicular Stomatitis affects both young and old animals. 

It may accompany the simple variety, but generally occurs 
as an independent affection. 

In this form small vesicles appear on the buccal mem- 
brane of the cheeks, around the angles of the mouth, and 
on the sides and freenum of the tongue. 

- They soon rupture, and leave minute ulcers, several of 
which frequently coalesce. 

Pustular Stomatitis.—The vesicles in the preceding form 
may develop into pustules, and thus this variety is some- 
times a sequel of vesicular stomatitis. In most instances, 
however, pustular stomatitis first appears as small yellowish 
spots, developing into distinct pustules, which rupture, and 
leave small, deep ulcers. 

Treatment of Stomatitis.—The hygienic and dietetic 
arrangements should be attended to in the first place. 

As local applications, chlorate of potassium, 15 grains to 
the ounce, or carbolic acid, 1 part in 40, are recom- 
mended. If the ulcers become indolent, they may be 
touched with a solution of sulphate of copper, a scruple to 
the ounce, or silver nitrate, 10 grains to the ounce. 


204 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Internally, antacids, such as bicarbonate of potash, with 
vegetable tonics are required in some cases, and they may 
be preceded by the administration of a mild purgative. 

GLOSSITIS.—Inflammation of the structure of the tongue 
is rarely met with in the horse, except when resulting from 
the action of irritants, or from mechanical injury. It may 
follow on inflammation of the neighbouring structures. 

The tongue becomes swollen, tense, and painful from the 
inflammatory infiltration, and soon protrudes in consequence 
of its increase in size. There is difficulty in swallowing, 
and ropy saliva and mucus accumulate in the mouth. 

Treatment.—Gargling, firstly with warm water, and 
afterwards with antiseptic or astringent lotions, is recom- 
mended. Laxatives, if required, must be given per rectum. 

PAROTITIS.—Inflammation of the parotid gland may 
affect one or both sides, and is a frequent mien as V8 i of 
strangles. 

Parotitis is acute or subacute, and is often met with 
associated with or supervening on various febrile attacks. 

Symptoms.—When of an acute type, parotitis may 
quickly terminate in abscess of the gland. The inflamma- 
tion, however, is usually of slower progress, and . reveals 
itself by gradual swelling and tenderness of the gland, with 
difficulty in moving the head and protrusion of the nose. 
The inflammation may gradually subside, or it may termi- 
nate in abscess, which, if not opened, may burst into the 
pharyngeal pouch. 

When the inflammation is very acute, the whole gland 
may be affected ; but when not so intense, it is usually 
limited to a portion of the gland-structure. 

Treatment.—Hot fomentations or poultices may be ap- 
plied for a time, and if pus forms it should be liberated. 

If the inflammation proceeds slowly, a cantharides blister 
or tincture of iodine of three times the B.P. strength may 


? 7. 
rf ~ 
— , 
at 


DISEASES. OF THE ALIMENTARY SYSTEM. 205 


be applied. Internally, tonics and stimulants are indi- 
cated. | | , 

PTYALISM—SALIVATION.—Ptyalism or salivation is 
an abnormal increase in the amount of secretion of saliva, 
which dribbles away continuously, or collects in foam around 
the mouth. 

We do not apply the term salivation or ptyalism to the 
escape of saliva from the mouth resulting from inability to 
swallow it. 

_ The secretion of saliva is a reflex process, and salivation 
depends therefore either upon peripheral irritation, or upon 


undue action of the salivary nervous centres, or on both 


these conditions. 

It is generaily dependent on peripheral irritation occur- 
ring in some diseases of the mouth, pharynx, throat, and 
other organs ; and may also result from irritation caused by 
irregularity of the teeth, or foreign bodies in the mouth. 
It may occur in rabies and tetanus, and in some instances no 


- assignable cause is found. 


Finally, it may be due to the administration of certain 
drugs. 

Treatment.—In all cases the cause should be ascertained 
and removed, if possible. 

If there be any irregularity of the teeth, this should be 
attended to. 

Gargles of alum or chlorate of potash are often very useful 
in these cases. If the salivation continues, belladonna is 
worthy of trial. 

ACUTE PHARYNGEAL CATARRH.—Inflammation of 
the mucous membrane and submucous tissue of the fauces 
and pharynx are common in influenza, strangles, and other 
specific fevers in which the air-passages are involved. 

This form of pharyngitis we have already alluded to, as 
also we have to inflammation of these parts occurring as 


206 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


part of general catarrh. But this disease also occurs as an. 


independent affection, from cold, exposure, damp, direct 
irritation, or disordered digestion. | | 

Symptoms.—Deglutition is attended with difficulty, and 
sometimes with coughing, during which the food is ex- 
pelled back into the mouth, and liquid through the 
nostrils. There is no fever or impairment of respiration 
unless laryngitis is also present. 

Treatment.—Many cases recover in a few days with rest. 
Inhalation of hot-water vapour medicated with carbolic 
acid or opium is very useful. 

Gargling with solution of chlorate of potash or sulphur- 
ous acid may also be tried, and hot fomentations externally 
are useful in allaying the irritation. 

In chronic cases, stimulating liniments or blisters may be 
applied. 

POST-PHARYNGEAL ABSCESS.—Simple inflammation 
of the pharynx may terminate in the formation of abscess in 
the pharyngeal structures. 

Suppuration in the parts, however, is more frequently 
met with in the pharyngitis occurring in some of the specific 
fevers, or in animals which have been exposed to mal- 
hygienic conditions. Abscess may also occur here as part of 
a general pyzemia. 

Suppuration in the pharynx causes obstruction to deglu- 
tition, the breathing becomes difficult, and the throat is 
generaily tender. 

Treatment.—The treatment of pharyngeal abscess is 
essentially surgical. If the breathing become difficult, in- 
halation of hot-water vapour, and the hot fomentations ex- 
ternally, are useful. If the abscess do not burst, it may be 
necessary to open it, especially if breathing is very much 
interfered with. 


4 


DISEASES OF THE ALIMENTARY SYSTEM. 207 


SECTION II. 


DISEASES OF THE CESOPHAGUS. 


INFLAMMATION OF THE GSOPHAGUS.—Inflamma- 
tion of the cesophagus is generally the result of direct injury. 
It may be induced by the passage of very large or hard por- 
tions of food, or by the administration. of irritant liquids. 
It may be caused by external violence, and not unfrequently 
occurs as part of general catarrh of other mucous membranes. 

Symptoms.—Difficulty of swallowing; tenderness on 
manipulation, and sometimes spasm of the cesophagus, are 
the usual symptoms manifested. In severe cases there may 
_ befebrile disturbance. When the inflammation occurs as the 
result of the administration of irritant liquids, as, for example, 
stimulating liniments given inadvertently, too hot water, or 
some poisons, as arsenic in solution, the submucous tissue may 
be much infiltrated. Perforation of the coats has been noticed 
in cases where the inflammation has been very severe. 

Treatment.—Many cases do not require treatment beyond 
_ the use of liquid food for a day or two. 

In severe cases linseed gruel, to which a little tincture of 
opium is added, is of benefit where there is much pain. Hot- 
water fomentations, followed by the application of stimu- 
lating liniments, are useful externally. Stricture of the 
cesophagus often follows severe inflammation. 

STRICTURE OF THE CSOPHAGUS.—Siricture of the 
cesophagus may be left as the result of previous inflamma- 
tion, or it may depend on tumours in connection with the 
walls or in the neighbouring structures. 

Symptoms.—Gradual progressive difficulty in swallowing. 
The food oftenaccumulates above theconstriction, and the ceso- 
phagus above may become dilated and hypertrophied in con- 
sequence. Ejection of the accumulated liquid often follows. 


208 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE, 


Treatment.—Nutritious diet is required, and should be 
semi-solid or liquid. It is best to pass a probang in order to 
ascertain the cause of the obstruction and its extent. The 
stricture may be dilated in some cases, and recovery follow, 
but dilatation of the tube above the constriction will most 
likely remain. In stricture due to changes in the walls them- 
selves, treatment will in all probability be of little avail. 

When it is the result of tumours, the treatment will depend 
on the site and nature of the abnormal growth. 

SPASM OF THE GSOPHAGUS.—Spasm of the cso- 
phagus is not common in the horse, and the causes inducing 
it are uncertain. In some instances, however, it has been 
shown to depend on local irritation. 

Symptoms.— When food, especially of a solid ialcre, 1S 
swallowed, it is, after travelling a certain distance, arrested 
for a time, and afterwards passes on, or is ejected suddenly, 
through the nose chiefly, but also through the mouth. The 
neck is usually bent, and the cesophageal muscles may be 
observed to undergo contraction. 

Treatment.—If any obstruction is suspected, it is well to 
pass the probang, and morphia in full doses may be injected 
subcutaneously. 

If the general health is disturbed, laxatives followed by 
tonics are indicated, 


SECTION III. 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH. , 
GENERAL REMARKS ON SOME GASTRIC SYMPTOMS. 


Flatulence.—Flatulence, or distension of the stomach and 
bowels with gas, results from fermentation, in the course of 
which carbonic acid chiefly, and other gases, such as sul- 


a - 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH. | 209 


phuretted and carburetted hydrogen, are also occasionally set 
free. Flatulence of this kind is probably due to alteration in 
the quality of the gastric juice, to feeble movements of the 
stomach and intestines, and to pyloric or intestinal ob- 
struction, which, by retaining the food and impeding the 
_ process of digestion, favour fermentative and putrefactive 
changes. 

Vomiting, or Emesis.—The rarity of vomiting in the horse 
has been attributed, firstly, to its small susceptibility to the 
action of nauseants ; and, secondly, to the supposed difficulty 
attending the process from the anatomical conformation of 
the stomach in the horse. It is well known that the mucous 
membrane is gathered in folds or rugz around the cardiac 
opening, and thus the food is prevented from escaping into 
the cesophagus. 

Vomiting in the horse chiefly depends on reflex irritation, 
due to functional or organic diseases of the stomach. The 
ejected matters are chiefly expelled through the nostrils. 

Vomiting has been observed in cases of gastric distension, 
‘and Robertson mentions some cases of young horses in which 
sickness was induced by eating haws. Some of these cases 
proved fatal, andin others marked prostration for several days 
followed the vomiting, which was attended with great distress. 
Vomiting also occasionally results from the injection of certain 
poisons, administered wilfully or with goodintention. Every 
case of hellebore poisoning which we have been called upon 
to treat has been attended with nausea and several with 
actual vomiting. 

Lastly, vomiting occurs in cases of rupture of the stomach, 
and has been noticed when there was dilatation of the lower 
part of the cesophagus close to its opening into the stomach. 

The treatment of emesis will vary in accordance with the 
disease with which it may be associated, under which it will 


be again referred to. 
14 


210 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


INDIGESTION OR DYSPEPSIA. 


Varieties: (1) Acute, and (2) Chronic Dyspepsia (dus, 
with difficulty ; and revrw, I digest). 


1. ACUTE DYSPEPSIA, OR INDIGESTION WITH 
ENGORGEMENT. — Etiology.—Acute indigestion results 
from engorgement of the stomach with food, from imperfect 
mastication, and from the ingestion of indigestible material, 
or food specially apt to undergo fermentative changes. 
Cooked food, brewers’ grains, maize, musty hay, and ripe 
vetches, are especially liable to cause impaction. Wheat 
and barley are also very likely to induce indigestion, and 
they frequently also cause purgation, laminitis, and may 
even lead to a fatal result. 

Horses are more liable to dyspepsia after severe or pro- 
longed exertion, especially if the food be difficult of aia 
tion, or in too large a quantity. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of acute indigestion are gene- 
rally sudden in their onset. There is fulness of the abdomen, 
and the horse is restless and shows indications of colicky 
pain. He lies down and rises again alternately, and paws 
the ground with his fore feet. Eructations of wind, occa- 
sional discharge of saliva from the mouth, and tremors of 
the superficial muscles, particularly those of the left 
shoulder, are also among the symptoms of acute indigestion. 

In severe cases the pain is very acute, and the horse throws 
himself about wildly, and frequently looks towards his flanks. 
The pulse and respiration are accelerated, and in some in- 
stances there are attempts at vomition, and the discharge of 
brown fluid contents of the stomach with the eructations. 

In some instances there is no manifestation of gastric pain, 
but the horse remains dull and semi-comatose, and the breath- 
ing may become stertorous ; he refuses his food, is moved 


i <t 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH. ZL 


with difficulty, and attempts to press his forehead against a 
wall or tree, or anything which comes in his way. Under 
these circumstances the respiration is not much quickened, 


and the pulse is of full volume, but not so accelerated as 


when gastric pain is a prominent symptom. Such cases as 
these were spoken of by the older writers as stomach staggers, 
and seem to be comparable with that form of gastric disturb- 
ance in man which is attended with vertigo and flatulent 
dyspepsia. 

Prognosis.—In mild cases the prognosis is very favour- 
able, and many recover without any treatment. In severe 
cases the prognosis must. be more guarded, as death some- 
times ensues from rupture of the stomach owing to the great 
distension of this organ, or from gastritis. 

Treatment.—In the treatment of acute indigestion a pur- 
gative should be given at once in order to clear the stomach. 
For this purpose aloes is preferable to any other aperient, 
though oil or saline purgatives are recommended by some. 
If there be much flatulence it will be well to give a full dose 
of the aromatic spirit of ammonia. If there be much pain, 
an ounce to an ounce and a half of sulphuric ether, with half 
an ounce to an ounce of spirits of chloroform, may be ad- 
ministered in water or gruel, every two or three hours, as 
long as the pain continues to be severe. 

In ordinary cases a draught composed of sulphuric ether, 
spirit of chloroform, and aromatic spirit of ammonia, given 
three or four times daily, will be found very beneficial. 

Hyposulphite or sulpho-carbolate of soda may also be 
mentioned as useful remedies in dispelling flatulence, and 
hydrocyanic acid in 20 or 30 minim doses is very valuable 
in subduing gastric irritation. 

Fleming’s tincture of aconite is recommended in moderate 
doses by some eminent authorities, but we cannot speak 
very favourably of its value in this disease. In cases where 

14—2 


212 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


there is any difficulty in administering liquids, acetate of 
morphia may be injected hypodermically. 

If the bowels are not acted upon after the lapse of 
forty-eight hours or so, it is advisable to again administer 
some purgative medicine, but it is best not to repeat the 
aloes. Castor oil, in doses of one to two pints, will be 
found to answer the purpose as efficiently as anything else. 

The treatment of indigestion with coma and cerebral com- 
plication does not materially differ from that above described. 

Some have recommended the early abstraction of blood 
in these cases, but we agree with the view that this measure, 
if not harmful and calculated to impede recovery, is rarely 
of any advantage in the treatment of this disease. An 
aloetic purge, followed by the administration of sulphuric 
ether, spirit of chloroform, with full dose of potassium 
bicarbonate, is generally all that is required. 


In all cases of acute indigestion which come before our 


notice it is necessary, firstly, to inquire carefully into the 
dietetic arrangements, and to advise the owner to have them 
more carefully regulated for the future. 

In the treatment of this disease, as soon as the appetite 
returns, the diet should be at first of a laxative nature, and 
limited in amount. 

2. CHRONIC INDIGESTION.—Etiology.—Chronic in- 
digestion, like the acute form, is chiefly caused by dietetic 
errors, though these are not always apparent. 

Sometimes the food, though of good quality, is too 
stimulating and dry; in other cases it is not sufficiently 
masticated, perhaps owing to irregularities in the teeth, but 
in most cases it will be found to be of inferior quality or 
administered irregularly. 

Dietetic errors in their turn induce changes in the gastric 
juices and in the movements of the stomach, which, how- 
ever, are sometimes deficient from impaired nerve-power. 


eS ee ee SS Se eee eee Ol eee ee 


au? 
t 7 
“nt 
‘ie a 
> id 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH, Ze 


Symptoms.—The symptoms of this affection are very 
variable. The appetite may or may not be impaired. 
Sometimes it is capricious and perverted. In other cases, 
though it continues good, the animal still continues to lose 
flesh. The bowels are generally irregular, the feces often 
coated with mucus, and there may be great thirst and acid 
eructations. Abdominal pain is not unfrequent in severe 
cases, especially when the appetite remains unimpaired. 

The horse is weak, sweats easily, and the skin is dry and 
hard. 

Treatment.—The cause of the disorder should firstly be 
inquired into, and the dietetic arrangements carefully 
regulated. | 

If the disease proceed from imperfect mastication, due to 
dental irregularities, these should at once be attended to. 

Some purgative should be given in all cases, unless the 
bowels are freely open, and should be followed by the ad- 
ministration of vegetable tonics, as gentian, nux vomica, 
quassia and chiretta, with full doses of potassium bicarbonate. 

The diet should be limited in amount, and it will be 
advantageous to changeit. When acidity of the stomach is 
a marked symptom, such antacids as magnesia, chalk, or 
subnitrate of bismuth may be administered. In the latter 
stages, fnux vomica or quinine, with dilute mineral acids, 
may be given two or three times daily. Fowler’s solution, 
given in the water with bicarbonate of potash, is also a 
useful means of restoring tone to the disordered stomach. 


INFLAMMATION OF THE STOMACH— 
GASTRITIS. 
Varieties.—(1) Acute ; (2) Chronic Gastritis. 


1, ACUTE GASTRITIS.—Etiology.—Though acute in- 
flammation of the stomach is said to have been met with 


214 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


in the horse as an idiopathic affection, yet in most 
instances it results from irritation of the gastric mucous 
membrane. Sometimes it is an accompaniment of intes- 
tinal disease. 

Irritation of the gastric mucous membrane is chiefly 
owing to dietetic errors. Under these circumstances it may 
be due to impaction of the stomach, or be traceable to 
constant dietetic mismanagement. 

Irritation of the mucous membrane may also be due to 

the presence of foreign bodies in the stomach, or to the 
ingestion of certain poisons. In influenza, and in some other 
specific fevers, gastritis may accompany or follow after the 
primary disease. 
' The poisons which most freauently cause Gumpdmuiion 
of the stomach are arsenic, mercury, antimony, copper, 
and sometimes lead salts. The foliage of some trees, as the 
yew, may also cause gastritis. 

Symptoms.—When gastritis accompanies impaction of 
the stomach, there are no diagnostic symptoms by which 
these conditions may be distinguished. In most cases great 
abdominal pain, acceleration of respiration, and a quick, 
rather hard, wiry pulse are among the chief symptoms of 
acute gastritis. 

For the special symptoms of the different poisons we 
must refer the reader to the chapter on toxicology. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The changes in the mucous membrane 
of the stomach vary in character and extent with the nature 
of the cause. When following continued irritation induced 
by dietetic errors, the mucous membrane is found to be 
opaque, swollen, and congested. 

Treatment.—If acute gastritis be diagnosed, we should 
endeavour, in the first place, to ascertain the cause. If 
any poison has been administered, it will be necessary to 
treat the inflammation in accordance with the nature 


gly ial 
' 
- 
7 a 
a 7 
ia 
4 4 J 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH. 915 


of the toxic agent, and to administer the requisite anti- 
dote.* 

Under any circumstances the food should be very re- 
stricted in amount, consisting of linseed gruel, or other 
non-irritating food, in small quantity. Opiates may also be 
given, especially if there be much pain. 

2. CHRONIC GASTRITIS.—Etiology.—Chronic gastritis 

_ may be met with as the sequel of acute inflammation, but 
it usually follows dietetic errors. 

In some instances it is traceable to irritation, caused by 
the presence of the larve of the cestrus equi, and may 
result from disease of the liver, or be dependent upon 
malignant disease of the walls of the stomach. 

Crib-biting is also not unfrequently a cause of dyspepsia 
and chronic gastritis. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms, forthe most part, are those 
of chronic dyspepsia, which, though often spoken of as a 
functional disorder of the stomach, is frequently due to 
chronic inflammation of that viscus. 

Some cases of frequently recurring colic and intestinal 
disorder are, no doubt, to be attributed to chronic gastritis. 

Treatment.—Ascertain the cause, if possible, and restrict 
the diet. 

The internal treatment will vary with the cause, but 
will in the main be similar to that recommended in chronic 
dyspepsia. 


RUPTURE OF THE STOMACH. 


Etiology.—Partial or complete rupture of the walls of 
the stomach is not uncommon among horses. It is mainly 
due to errors in dieting and work, and is more frequently 
met with among the heavier draught horses, which are 


* Vide Chapter on Poisons. 


216 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


especially subjected to irregularities of work and defective 
dietetic arrangements. 

Rupture is especially likely to occur wilee a large amount 
of food is given after exhausting or prolonged work. 
‘Under these circumstances the food is especially liable to 
undergo fermentative changes from its longer retention in 
the stomach, owing to the slow and imperfect action of the 
gastric juice and the defective muscular movements of the 
walls. It is said to be more frequent in horses fed on 
bruised than on whole grains, especially when put to work 
after a full meal. 

Rupture of the stomach is probably, in most instances, 
preceded by derangement and distension, or actual degenera- 
tion of the walls, consequent on chronic indigestion and other 
causes. It is rarely met with in young animals, but most 
commonly occurs in aged animals, especially when these 
have undergone severe exertion or have been overworked 
for a long period. | 

Symptoms.—Vomiting, or attempts at vomiting, generally 
occur in rupture of the stomach, but as it is not invariably 
present, and may proceed from other causes, as, for instance, 
from rupture of the colon, or other part of the intestine, 
and also from dilation of the cardiac orifice, it cannot be 
considered a diagnostic symptom. It is, however, more 
complete in rupture of the stomach, and in dilatation of the 
cardiac orifice, than in intestinal lesions. Rupture may be 
brought about by gradual distension of the walls, and 
without much pain, until the advent of peritonitis, which is 
set up by the escape of the contents of the stomach into 
the peritoneal cavity. Sometimes, however, rupture occurs 
suddenly, owing to the violent struggles of the animal in its 
paroxysms of pain, during the course of gastric disturbance, 
or in intestinal disorders. 

The animal becomes uneasy, the countenance becomes 


DISEASES OF THE STOMACH. ya 


_ gloomy and dejected, and he looks anxiously round at his 
flanks. ‘There is great weakness, and rapid prostration of 
strength. The pulse is feeble and fluttering, the respira- 
tions are short and quick, and there are frequent attempts 
at vomiting and regurgitation of the solid or fluid contents 
through the nostrils, and there may be profuse perspiration. 
In some cases the animal remains quiet for a time after the 
rupture, while in other instances the pain is intense, and 
the animal becomes delirious, 

By some vomition is thought to be incompatible with 
rupture of the stomach, and is considered to be an antece- 
dent symptom. It is, however, highly probable that 
vomition can and does occur after rupture of this organ, 
unless the rent be very extensive. 

Prognosis.—Rupture of the stomach is fatal in the great 
majority of instances. In some, collapse and death follow 
in a few hours, while in others, where the rent is not so 
extensive, life may be prolonged for a couple of days or 
more. 

Treatment.—Treatment is of no avail. If the diagnosis 
is clear, it is best to have the animal put out of his 
agony. 


SECTION LY. 
DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 


ON SOME IMPORTANT SYMPTOMATIC CONDITIONS 
AND FUNCTIONAL DISORDERS OF THE IN- 
TESTINES. 

CONSTIPATION. 

Constipation, or torpid action of the bowels, may depend 
upon intestinal obstruction, which is treated of below, or 
upon diminished peristaltic action, or deficient intestinal 
secretions. ‘The two latter are, in their turn, chiefly due 
to dietetic errors, though they may depend upon other 


218 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE.. 


causes also. Retention of feeces, if not relieved, may lead 
to congestion or inflammation of the intestine. 

Generally the abdomen is full and distended, but this is 
by no means a constant symptom. ‘The motions are at- 
tended with difficulty, and straining or tenesmus is not 
unfrequent. 

If the constipation continue unrelieved, the appetite 
becomes impaired, weakness follows, and the pulse becomes 
feeble and accelerated. In some instances a yellow gelatinous 
mucous secretion is discharged in cases of constipation 
depending upon retention and impaction of the feces. 
This discharge is frequently mistaken for diarrhoea by the 
uninitiated, when in reality it 1s indicative of a costive con- 
dition of the bowels. 

Treatment.—-As long as the animal remains in good health, 
all that is necessary in constipation is a change of the diet 
for one of a more laxative nature. If the constipation is 
habitual, a moderate dose of aloes, followed by the adminis- 
tration of vegetable tonics, such as nux vomica, gentian, 
and several others, is efficacious in most instances. 

When the irregularity of the bowels is dependent upon 
paralysis of part of the intestine, purgatives should not be 
given. In these cases, stimulants, with liquor strychne, 
will be found very beneficial. If the paralysis invoive 
the large gut, the rectum is frequently found to be in a 
dry, dilated condition, and gives the impression, when the 
hand is introduced, of a jarge cavity with passive walls 
(Williams). 

For the prevention of the recurrence of constipation, 
bran mashes and other laxative diet may be substituted 
occasionally for the more solid food, and nux vomica, gentian, 
and ginger may be given in the form of a ball three or four 
times weekly. If necessary, an occasional dose of aloes may 
be administered. 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 219 


In cases where young foals are unable to void the 
meconium, enemas of oil will generally be found efficacious. 
If the bowels are not relieved by this means, a couple of 
ounces of castor oil may be given internally. 


DIARRHGA. 


Etiology of Diarrhcea.—Diarrhcea is the general term 
applied to abnormal fluidity and increased amount of the 
alvine discharges. It is met with as a functional disturb- 
ance of various nature, or as a symptom in the course of 
general disease or extensive local changes in the intestinal 
tract. 

The proximate causes of diarrhoea are excessive secretion 
from the intestinal walls, combined with increased peristaltic 
action. These conditions are, in their turn, either due to 
direct irritation of the mucous membrane from without, as, 
for instance, by food, foul water, parasites, or to indirect 
influences generated in the animal itself. As instances 
of the latter may be mentioned the diarrhcea which some- 
times accompanies the specific fevers, and that which occurs 
in some structural changes in the liver, spleen and pancreas, 
and that resulting from disturbance of the nervous system, 
frequently reflex in nature. 

Perhaps of all causes of diarrhoea, the most frequent in 
the adult animal is injurious and irregular dieting. Sudden 
changes in the diet, especially from a dry to a moist or 
laxative one, ingestion of medicinal substances, copious 
draughts of cold water, when heated after exposure to the 
sun’s rays or exertion, and feeding immediately after severe 
work or exposure to cold and damp, may be mentioned as 
specially liable to induce diarrhcea.* 

* Mr. Robertson mentions that diarrhcea is sometimes induced by 


the free use of potatoes; but this practice is fortunately limited to 
certain parts of the country. 


220 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In plethoric horses with very little work, a small 
amount of exercise will often bring on an attack of 
diarrhea. 

Symptoms.—The feces are semi-fluid, and either foetid 
or without offensive odour. If the diarrhoea continues 
long unchecked, the animal loses flesh and the appetite 
fails. 

In some instances, there is great prostration, abdominal 
pain is not uncommon, and the respirations become accele- 
rated. Unless the nausea and pain be very marked, the 
pulse is not usually quickened. The special symptoms 
induced by the presence of parasites, among which the 
strongylus tetracanthus, a small nematode found chiefly in 
the cecum and colon, is especially liable to cause diar- 
rhea, will be considered in the chapter on parasites. 

Etiology, Symptoms, and Pathological Lesions of 
Diarrhea in the Young.—In the young, diarrhea in 
many instances differs from that of the adult, and has 
special characteristic features of its own. 

The form of diarrhcea to which we refer is a specific 
intestinal catarrh, which though not contagious in foals, as 
it is probably in the bovine species, is nevertheless a far 
more serious affection than ordinary diarrhcea of the 
adult. | 

It owes its origin to defective sanitary arrangements, 
and also to changes in the quality of the milk. Such 
changes are traceable in some instances to the fact that the 
mare is worked hard during the day, and returns at night 
to her foal, which after its fast during the day is apt to take 
more milk than it can well digest. | 

The symptoms of this infantile diarrhoea usually appear 
during the first two or three weeks of life. The faeces at 
first are of a yellowish white colour, and there is little or no 
pain. In more advanced stages, or from the first in the 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 221 


more serious forms, the feces are acrid, and there is more 
or less abdominal pain, which may be very severe. If the 
disease continues, the foal ceases to suck, and loses flesh 
rapidly. 

After death there may be no discoverable lesions, or 
there may be an accumulation of dark serous fluid in the 
abdomen, as well as several patches of ecchymosis on the 
peritoneal surface of the bowel. The mucous membrane of 
the bowel is infiltrated, and covered with a catarrhal dis- 
charge, while in some places superficial ulcerations, owing 
to the removal of the epithelium, may be found. 

In some instances the liver is pale and bloodless. 

Prognosis in Diarrhea,—The prognosis is usually very | 
favourable, but in infantile diarrhoea a fatal termination 
is not uncommon. 

Treatment of Diarrhea in Adults.—We should, in the 
first place, endeavour to ascertain the cause of the diarrhea. 
If it proceed from irregularities in the feeding or in the 
work, these should be immediately rectified. In most in- 
stances medicine is not required unless the diarrhea is 
excessive, or the pain and general disturbance very great. 
No cold water should be allowed; the animal should be 
kept quiet and warmly clad. The diet should be easily 
digestible, and linseed gruel or other demulcent drinks may 
be allowed. When the pain is very great, tincture of opium, 
spirits of chloroform in moderate doses, with a drachm of 
camphor, may be given three times daily in flour gruel. 
When prostration is very marked, and the pain severe, tinc- 
ture of opium, sulphuric ether, and spirits of chloroform 
may be given three times daily, with a moderate amount of 
alcoholic stimulant, as port wine or brandy. Woollen 
cloths wrung out from warm water may be applied fre- 
quently to the abdomen, and stimulating liniments rubbed 
in in the intervals between the applications. When the 


oe MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


diarrhcea is due to hepatic engorgement or obstruction to 
the portal circulation, dilute nitric acid, with nux vomica 
and gentian, may be administered in the form of a draught 
twice daily. 

Treatment of Diarrhea in the Young. —It is well to 
commence the treatment of this form of diarrhcea with a 
laxative, such as castor a in order to expel irritant matter 
in the intestines. 

A dose of tincture of opium may be given with the oil. 

This treatment may be followed up by the administration 
of camphor and opium, with spirits of chloroform, three 
times a day, in water, or in strong decoction of tea. 

When weakness is very marked, a little alcoholic stimu- 
lant may be added, and the hot cloths and stimulating 
liniments applied to the abdomen. Other remedies also 
found beneficial are carbonate of magnesia, catechu, Bael 
fruit, and prepared chalk. 


COLIC. 

Abdominal pain may arise from functional derangement 
of the intestinal canal, or it may be due to organic lesions 
of varying extent and. nature. To the functional disturb- 
ance the term ‘true colic’ is applied; while when depend- 
ing on organic lesions this condition is sometimes spoken 
of as ‘ false colte.’ 

True colic is of two varieties, which may be associated 
together. The one, termed ‘ spasmodic colic,’ is due to spas- 
modic contraction of the muscular walls of the gut; the 
other, termed ‘ flatulent colic,’ is owing to extensive gaseous 
accumulation in the intestine. It is said that the spasmodic 
form may terminate in intestinal inflammation.. This is 
not at all improbable, but nevertheless it 1s not easy to tell in 
such instances whether the colic may not be an early symptom of 
commencing inflammation. 


a : 
Fé _ 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. ypc 


Etiology of Colic.—Colic may be due to dietetic errors, 
such as have been already mentioned as liable to induce 
dyspepsia, diarrhoea, constipation, and other disordered 
states of the system. Over-feeding, sudden changes in the 
diet, irregularities in the dieting, taking a large amount 
of food after a long fast, or after prolonged or severe exer- 
tion, food of inferior or unsuitable quality, are all potent 
agencies in the production of spasmodic intestinal contrac- 
tion, as well as of flatulent distension, which may be asso- 
ciated with the spasm or occur independently. 

Besides dietetic errors, there are many other causes of 

colic. This painful affection may be due to intestinal ob- 
struction from mechanical displacement, and change of 
position of different parts of the intestine, or from impaction 
of calculi or other concretions of varying composition. 

Not unfrequently colic depends: upon the presence of 

animal parasites in the bowels, and sometimes also in neigh- 

bouring parts. Young animals especially, when badly fed 
and attended to, are more liabie to colic from this source 
than older horses. Pain, when originating from the pre- 
sence of worms, is usually of a recurrent type, and attended 
with progressing debility and loss of flesh. The presence 
of certain worms in the mesenteric arteries is, as we shall 
see in the chapter on parasites, also said to be a frequent 
cause of colic on the Continent, more especially in Germany. 
This parasitic affection, which is rarely met with in this 
country, sometimes even ends in death. Irritant poisons, 
when ingested, produce pain, sometimes very intense. Cold 
and damp also may cause intestinal disturbance, manifested 
by abdominal pain. 

Lastly, as causes of colic are the group of organic diseases 
not only of the intestine itself, but also of the peritoneum, 
kidneys, liver, and pleura. 

Among the organic diseases which may produce colic are: 


224 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


disease, more especially abscess, of the mesenteric glands, 
which not unfrequently accompanies strangles and other 
_ suppurative diseases; chronic changes in the walls of the 
intestines, as, for example, thickening, degeneration or 
atrophy of the coats ; malignant growths; intussusception 
and dysentery. 

Symptoms of Spasmodic Colic.—The onset of spasmodic 
colic is generally more or less sudden. The horse shows 
signs of abdominal pain by looking round at his flanks, by 
restlessness, by striking at his belly with his hind feet, and 
in various other ways. He lies down, and rolls about 
from side to side. After a while he rises and eats a little, 
and soon perhaps a paroxysm of pain again attacks him. 

In uncomplicated cases of colic the number of the pulse 
and respirations and the temperature are rarely elevated, 
except during the paroxysms of pain. The pulse is then 
much accelerated, and the respiration becomes hurried or 
sighing. | 

The attack may now subside, or gradually become more 
and more severe, the paroxysms becoming more continuous 
and the pain more intense. 

The restlessness and excitability increase, or partial 
‘stupor supervenes, and the attack, if unrelieved, may end 
in death from continued pain or exhaustion, with varying 
complications. 

In most, cases of colic the bowels are constipated, and 
the feces, if any are passed, are usually hard, and often 
coated with mucus. The urine is frequently retained, 
or passed ina jerky manner. Great restlessness, much 
pain, frequent pawing and looking to the sides, are said 
to be especially indicative of invasion of the small intes- 
tine, while stretching of the body, throwing of the head 
upwards, with curling of the upper lip and pressing of the 
posterior part of the body against the wall or stall-post, 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 225 


more especially point to colic resulting from impaction of 
the large intestine. 

Symptoms of Flatulent Colic.—Flatulent colic, due to 
distension of the intestine with gas, may be associated with 
spasm of the muscular coats, or it may occur independently 
of the spasmodic variety. The flatulent form is especially 
to be attributed to digestive disturbance depending on in- 
gestion of food specially prone to undergo fermentation. 
This affection usually comes on suddenly. The horse is 
noticed to be very restless, and the abdomen distends and 
becomes tense, and gives a tympanitic note on percussion. 
The breathing is short, and chiefly thoracic, and the pulse 
is increased in frequency, and feeble. The extremities are 
cold, and there may be more or less delirium and vertigo. 
When the animal is inclined to lie down, he does not throw 
himself suddenly on the ground, as in spasmodic colic, but 
allows himself to fall more slowly and carefully. 

If unrelieved, the continued distension and thoracic com- 
pression may lead to further circulatory and inspiratory 
disturbance, and death may result from asphyxia. Some- 
times rupture of the colon or other part of the bowel, or of 
the diaphragm, is the cause of death. 

Prognosis of Spasmodic and Flatulent Colic.—In severe 
cases of flatulent colic the prognosis is not so favourable as 
in the spasmodic form, but in ordinary cases the prognosis 
is very favourable in both varieties. 

In all prolonged cases with great pain and restlessness 
there is danger of displacement or entanglement of the in- 
testine ; and when tympanitic distension is very great, or 
the struggles very violent, there is great risk of rupture of 
the large bowel or of the diaphragm. 

Morbid Anatomy of Spasmodic and Flatulent Colic.— 
When colic is due to continued spasm, there may be found 
a peculiar degenerative change of both the mucous and sub- 

15 


226 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


mucous walls of the small and large gut. In other cases 
the change is of an atrophic nature. 

In many instances, however, no change is to be found in 
the walls of the intestine, though these are not infrequently 
somewhat thickened. 

In some cases parasites, or various kinds of concretions 
to which the pain was due, may be found after death. 

When the colic depends on organic changes, correspond- 
ing lesions of varying extent are found. . 

Treatment of Spasmodic Colic.—In all cases of colic, 
except those in which diarrhcea is present, it is advisable to 
commence treatment by the administration of a cathartic. 
Barbadoes aloes is the best purgative in these cases, and 
is given preferably in the form of a ball, in doses of 5 to 7 
or 8 drachms, depending upon the size and condition of the 
animal.* 

In addition to the cathartic, enemas of water at about 
100° F. should be given, and repeated at intervals of two or 
three hours if necessary. Some recommend the addition of 
aloes to the enema, or the substitution of oil for warm 
_ water in cases of impaction of the colon. We do not, how- 
ever, believe that enemas of this kind are of greater 
efficacy than those of simple warm water. if the pain is 
severe, it is best combated by the administration of 31. ss. to 
z11. of sulphuric ether with 311. of nitric ether, which may be 
given in gruel or water, and may be repeated every two or 
three hours in the early stages so long as the pain continues 
unabated. ‘Tincture of opium, or hypodermic injection 
of 40 minims of acetate of morphia (injectio morphic 


* There is perhaps no drug in the pharmacopceia of which such vary- 
ing qualities are found in the market as of Barbadoes aloes, and none 
in the buying of which greater care is required. Much of that sold is 
really unfit for use ; and it is well not to trust to balls of aloes sold 
ready made up by some. We believe that neglect of proper precau- 
tions in this particular is often answerable for very untoward results. 


wl fh ae 
iil 
& 
: as 
oe 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. pp 


acetatis, B.P.), is recommended by some authorities, 
These opiates are also very efficacious in subduing the pain. 
The tinctura opii may be given in 3ij. to 3iij. doses, and 
may be repeated if necessary after the lapse of two or 
three hours. It is not, however, generally necessary to 
repeat the hypodermic injection. A mixture composed of 
doses of tincture of opium and sulphuric ether, with 
a moderate dose of spirit of chloroform, is perhaps 
the most efficacious means of subduing the intense pain 
of colic. Some recommend Fleming’s tincture of aconite ; 
but we believe this remedy to be neither very effica- 
cious nor necessary in the treatment of uncomplicated 
colic. 

Hot fomentations and stimulating lniments may with 
advantage be applied to the abdomen. 

Treatment of Flatulent Colic.—In these cases, in addition 
to the aloes, it is advisable to administer some remedy to 
dispel the accumulated gas. For this purpose, aromatic 
spirit of ammonia, turpentine, and assafcetida are perhaps 
the best. If there be much pain, an anodyne, as sul- 
phuric ether, or tincture of opium, should be administered 
in addition. 

French veterinarians largely practise puncturing the 
colon with a trochar, in order to liberate the accumulated 
gas. ‘This measure is said by some to be attended with 
great benefit if performed early. 


INTESTINAL OBSTRUCTION. 


Etiology.—The causes of intestinal obstruction may be 
arranged under various headings : 

1. Causes acting within the gut itself, such as impaction of 
feeces, or concretions of various kinds. Some of the latter 
are composed of vegetable matter, while others chiefly 

15—2 


228 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


consist of mineral substances, as phosphate of lime and 
magnesia. 

The larger concretions are more frequently found in the 
pouches of the large intestine, from which they are liable to 
be displaced by the movements of the animal. 

2. Causes acting on the walls of the gut, as inflammatory 
thickening, or stricture of any portion of the small or large 
intestine. These causes are rare in the horse. 

3. Causes acting on the gut from without, resulting in 
altered position or displacement. As examples may be 
mentioned strangulation by bands of lymph, or, in rare 
instances, by mesenteric tumours, the neck of which wraps 
round the gut, and also twists and displacements of various 
kinds. | 

The colon may be found twisted round on itself, and some- 
times the small intestine is entangled, owing to twisting or 
laceration of the mesentery. Not uncommonly a loop ofthe 
small, and sometimes of the large, intestine passes through 
an opening in the peritoneal covering. | 

Umbilical and inguinal herniz may also cause obstruc- 
tion, as also may intussusception, or the passage of one part of 
the bowel into that immediately below a. This condition is 
very rarely met with in the horse, and is of more frequent 
occurrence in the young than in adult animals. 

General Symptoms of Obstruction.—The symptoms of in- 
testinal obstruction, which may proceed from so many different 
causes, are very variable. 

When the obstruction results from impaction of feeces, or 
from the presence of concretions, the symptoms are usually 
gradual and of an intermittent character. 

The other forms are generally more sudden in their onset ; 
but we know of no diagnostic symptoms peculiar to twists, 
intussusception, or strangulation of the intestines in the 
horse, 


= a 
‘ ; 
Re . 
d . 
~ 
J . 


All of them may be associated with great enteric or abdo- 
minal pain, restlessness, sitting on the hind-quarters, small, 
frequent, thready pulse, accelerated respiration, cold extre- 
mities, distension of the abdomen, and collapse, ending in 
death from exhaustion. 

In some cases it may be possible to detect an external 
hernia, when the diagnosis will be at once cleared up... The 
progress of the case will sometimes help us in forming a 
diagnosis ; for example, if there be constipation, with fre- 
quent attacks of colic, the obstruction is probably due to 
impaction of feces. 

Treatment of Obstruction.—Anodynes, such as those re- 
commended in colic, may be given, and repeated as often as 
necessary. ‘Tincture of opium and sulphuric ether are per- 
haps the most efficacious. Enemata of warm water may be 
injected in full amount into the rectum, and hot fomenta- 
tions, or woollen cloths wrung out from hot water, applied 
to the abdomen. ‘The rectum may be explored also by the 
hand, with the object of removing obstructions when within 
reach, 

In some instances tapping the distended bowel is recom- 
mended when the distension is very great. 

The food should be of a laxative kind, and only allowed 
in moderation. 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 229 


RUPTURE OF THE INTESTINE. 


Rupture of the walls of the intestine is of more frequent 
occurrence in the colon than in the small intestine, and is 
due in most instances to impaction of feeces, or to excessive 
tympanitis, or to both these conditions associated together. 
It is readily intelligible that these disorders are especially 
liable to result where the walls of the gut are in an atonic 
or degenerated condition. Moreover, under these circum- 
stances the muscular and other coats of the intestines are 


230 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


least capable of resisting the effects of these disorders, and — 
are thus especially prone to rupture. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of rupture are very variable, 
and not, diagnostic. In most instances rapid exhaustion 
follows the intestinal lesion, wherever it may be situated. 

In some cases collapse and death soon follow the occur- 
rence, while in others life is not extinguished for several 
days. In many cases rupture is very difficult to diagnose 
from other severe affections of the bowels. When following 
impaction of fzces in the colon, or considerable dilatation 
of the walis of the gut, rupture is not unfrequently succeeded 
by relief. The restlessness and straining subside, and a 
period of calm follows until death. The countenance, how- 
ever, is anxious, the pulse small, thready, and gradually 
becomes more and more imperceptible, the respiration is short 
and thoracic, and there is great disinclination to stir. In 
rupture of the colon the horse frequently sits on his haunches, 
and may attempt to vomit; but these symptoms cannot be 
regarded as diagnostic of rupture. Sitting on the haunches, 
indeed, is a very frequent symptom in twists and other forms 
of strangulation. 


ENTERITIS — INFLAMMATION OF THE 
BOWELS. 


Etiology and Varieties.—Inflammation of the bowels is in 
most cases limited to sections of the intestinal canal, though 
it may affect the tube throughout. It is more commonly 
met with in adults and in those in confinement than in the 
young and those running out at grass. 

The late Mr. D. Gresswell used to recognise two distinct 
forms of enteritis in the horse, which, although presenting 
many symptoms in common, are in reality of a different 
nature. 


a 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 231 


EEE 


The first variety may be termed congestive, or indeed 
apoplectic, from the rapidity with which the animal is struck 
down, asit were, and dies in afew hours. Of this variety the 
causes are not always apparent, but over-exertion, prolonged 
exposure to cold, drinking cold water when heated, and 
finally, washing with cold water while the animal is in a 
heated and perspiring condition, are among the chief which 
we are acquainted with. 

The second variety, which may be termed secondary en- 
teritis, is in most instances of not such a severe type, even 
though the extent of inflammation is in some cases very 
great. This form depends upon impaction of feces, consti- 
pation, intussusception, the ingestion of irritative poisons, 
especially arsenic, various concretions, aggregations of para- 
sites, and various other causes. 

In addition to the above causes, enteritis may also super- 
vene in some fevers and constitutional diseases. As an 
example may be mentioned the enteritis of pink eye, or 
pneumo-enteritis, as this form of influenza has been termed. 

By some the czecum and colon are said to be more fre- 
quently invaded than the small intestines, while other 
authorities affirm that enteritis has its seat more frequently 
in the ileum and jejunum. 

Symptoms.—In some cases the symptoms of enteritis are 
gradual, while in others they are sudden in their onset. Not 
unfrequently the abdominal pain is preceded by general con- 
stitutional disturbance, shown by acceleration of the breath- 
ing, marked dulness, depression, and loss of appetite ; while 
in other instances the inflammatory action is ushered in with 
marked shivering or rigors. 

The belly is generally tender when pressure is applied. 

The abdominal pain, unlike that of colic, is continuous, is 
more agonizing, and rarely has periods of intermission. 

The pulse, at first quick, hard, and wiry, becomes in the 


232 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


later stages still more accelerated, though of less volume, 
feebler, and gradually more irritable and imperceptible. In 
number the beats range from 70 or 80 to 120, or even 
higher. 

In cases of simple colic the pulse is unaltered, except 
during the paroxysms of pain, whereas in enteritis it gradu- 
ally becomes more and more disturbed. 

The animal in his paroxysms of pain stamps and strikes 
at his belly, and when he lies down he may be observed to 
do so with greater care than in simple colic. 

He often turns his eyes towards his flanks, and copious 
sweats bedew the body, and he groans in his agony. 
At other times he stands, so intense is the pain, almost 
motionless, with an expression indicative of acute suffering 
depicted on his countenance. 

The surface of the body becomes cold and bedewed with 
moisture, the pupils dilate, and delirium and stupor may 
supervene. 

The animal soon perhaps becomes more restless than 
ever, and wanders about the box, or casts himself down, 
and rolls about regardless of all obstacles. 

Sometimes he will balance himself for a short time, with 
teeth clenched and limbs and ears icy cold, when he may 
suddenly fall, and die exhausted after severe struggles. 

Sometimes before death an apparent improvement takes 
place ; the horse stands quiet for awhile, yet, though the 
breathing becomes quieter and the pain abates, and he 
takes a little food, the countenance maintains its haggard, 
dejected appearance, cold sweats bedew the body, and the 
pulse continues thready, and perhaps almost or quite imper- 
ceptible. 

In still more advanced stages, if agony, pain, and intense 
inflammation have not already carried off our patient, he 
trembles continuously, the lips fall pendulously, the eyes 


+S 
7 
a 


; DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. ~ er 


become duller and more amaurotic, the mouth becomes 
clammy, the breath perhaps foetid, until at length he can 
hold out no longer, and death puts an end to his suf- 
fering. 

Prognosis.—Enteritis is generally fatal. If, as happens 
in some rare instances, the acute symptoms abate after the 
lapse of a few hours, and the pulse regains in some degree 
its normal character, becoming fuller, softer, and slower, 
there is great hope of recovery. 

Morbid Anatomy.—In the form of enteritis which we 
spoke of as congestive, the post-mortem appearances are 

_ very marked and characteristic. 

The mucous membrane of the affected section of the gut 
is intensely congested, being of a deep purple or even black 
colour, and in many instances there is a copious effusion of 
blood in the intestinal canal. The mucous coat is much 
thickened, and can be easily separated from its connections 
with the underlying coats of gut. There is also consider- 
able thickening of the submucous and subserous coats, 
which are intensely infiltrated with sero-hemorrhagic 
effusion. , 

The colon is said to be more frequently the seat of this 
violent form of inflammation than any other part of the 
bowel. 

In some cases, so extensive is the infiltration and thick- 
ening of the submucous tissue, and so intense is the inflam- 
matory process, that this coat appears as a dark purple or 
black gelatinous mass of two inches or more in thickness, 
extending for varying lengths of the gut, and sometimes in- 
volving many feet of the intestinal tract. 

Even though the amount of effusion into the gut be very 
great, and the contents themselves be fluid, the bowels usually 
remain inactive owing to paralysis of the muscular coats. 

In other forms of enteritis the inflammatory process is 


PAA: 5 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


not of this marked character. The inflammation is usually 
more patchy in distribution. Coagulable lymph is effused 
on the surface, and afterwards may be voided with the feces. 
The morbid appearances of enteritis caused by the inges- 
tion of poisonous agents wili be considered in a later 
chapter. , 

Inflammation of the intestines, which occurs in various 
fevers, such as influenza, is of a different character from 
the varieties already considered. In some instances the in- 
flammation is attended in these cases with extensive sero- 
hemorrhagic effusion into the submucous coat, while in 
others the exudation 1s a much less marked feature. 

Sometimes ulcerated patches are observed in the mucous 
membrane, while in other cases the epithelial lining of the 
intestine is eroded in large tracts, leaving a rough granular 
surface. Not uncommonly dark gangrenous patches are 
encountered here and there on the mucous membrane. 

Treatment.—We have said that in acute enteritis cessa- 
tion of the peristaltic action results at the seat of the in- 
flammation owing to paralysis of the muscular coats of the 
intestine. It is thus manifest that cathartic medicines, if 
administered, would cause increased peristaltic action and 
secretion above the seat of disease. ‘They would thus only 
serve to further increase the irritation in the involved area 
by the passage of the feces through it, while they could 
have no effect whatever on its functional activity, owing 
to the paralysis of the walls. 

Furthermore, constipation, lasting a day or two, is not in 
itself a matter of very serious importance, Cathartics are 
therefore inadmissible in the treatment of this disease, 
being only calculated to promote the morbid processes in 
action. So far from our irritating the inflamed intestine 
for the relief of constipation, we should use all the means 
in our power to assuage pain and calm the movements of 


i 
1. 
<j 


the intestines. For this purpose no remedy is more effica- 
cious than opium, or its alkaloid, morphia. Opium is best 
given in powder in the form of a ball, or in simple solution, 
and may be administered in doses of one, two, or three 
drachms in a suitable medium. Some authors recommend 
a draught of five minims of tincture of aconite, and 
half a drachm of opium. We prefer to give a larger 
dose of opium in the first instance, and have found that 
the addition to the mixture of two drachms of chloroform 
considerably enhances the beneficial result. Aconite is, 
however, also a valuable remedy in the treatment of 
enteritis, especially in those cases where bleeding, though 
admissible, is not practised. 

After the administration of the opiate, if the pain still 
continue severe, 40 minims of the injectio morphix 
hypodermica (B.P.) may be injected under the skin every 
two or three hours if necessary. 

Some veterinary surgeons prefer sulphuric ether for the 
relief of pain after the administration of the opiate, while 
others combine the two remedies. Sulphuric ether is 
without doubt a valuable remedy, especially in all cases 
where there is much flatulence, and we have found it of great 
value when given in addition to the hypodermic injection. 
Of the use of belladonna as a drug to be depended upon in 
enteritis, we cannot speak in high terms of praise. 

Hot fomentations, by means of woollen rugs wrung out 
from very hot water, may be applied to the abdomen, and 
renewed every half-hour for three or four times, while the 
pain is very acute, and afterwards every hour or so. During 
the intervals some stimulating liniments may be well rubbed 
in, over the‘abdomen. Some practitioners recommend the 
application of a poultice of mustard, which is rubbed off in 
two or three hours, and followed up by the application of 
hot fomentations. 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. 935 


236 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


——. 


Enemas of tepid water should be given by means of the 
ordinary funnel apparatus, but it is not advisable to use any 
injecting syringe. Ifthe enema cause much pain, it is well 
not to annoy the animal by continuing it. If the horse is 
inclined to drink, he may be allowed linseed gruel or tea, or 
oatmeal gruel. 

After the abatement of the acute symptoms, no cathartics 
should be given, but we should endeavour to relieve the 
bowels by the administration of enemas and laxative 
diet, consisting of bran mashes, linseed, and oatmeal 
gruel. No hard food should be allowed on any account 
until all danger is over. 

In highly plethoric animals, bleeding is indicated in the 
early stages, when the pulse is full, and is often very shortly 
followed by abatement of the acute symptoms. Blood 
should be abstracted in amount proportionate to the size 
and condition of the animal, and in moderation only. 

It is our practice under any circumstances not to remove 
more than two or three quarts of blood. 

The operation should not be repeated. 


DYSENTERY. 


Definition.—Dysentery (dus, with: difficulty ; évrepov, the 
bowel) is an inflammatory disease of the intestine, chiefly 
the large one, accompanied by febrile manifestations and 
sometimes by abdominal pain, and is characterized by 
certain tissue changes which vary according to the inten- 
sity of the inflammatory process. The feces are often 
mingled with blood, albuminous material, or shreds of disin- 
tegrated tissue. 

Nature and Etiology.—Dysentery is of less frequent © 
occurrence in the horse than in other animals, and may be 


, 4 
. * 


of an acute or chronic nature. It is not established as yet 
whether this affection can be communicated from one horse 
to another. In most cases dysentery occurs as an indepen- 
dent affection; sometimes, however, it supervenes on an 
attack of ordinary diarrhoea. Among the chief causes of 
this malady in the horse are : 

1. Malhygienic conditions, such as overcrowding, vitiated 
air supply, and exposure to noxious emanations, 

2. Insufficient or bad food and foul water. 

3. Exposure to cold and damp, overwork, and all other de- 
pressing agencies. 

4. Malarial poison arising from vegetable decay. 

This is especially prevalent in low-lying marshy tracts 
and in shady places. 

We have, as yet, no evidence that dysentery owes its 
origin to the entry of any specific germ into the system, 
already perhaps in an unhealthy depressed condition, but 
this seems not at all unlikely. 

In the horse we have no proof that this disease ever arises 
from direct infection from another animal. 

Symptoms.—The frequent passage of liquid feces may 
first attract notice, or, in other instances, febrile manifesta- 
tions, debility, and rapid prostration may precede the 
frequent alvine discharges. 

Rigors are common throughout the disease in many cases. 
The pulse is accelerated, the internal temperature is elevated, 
thus distinguishing this affection from simple diarrhcea. 

Sometimes the disease begins insidiously, and we may 
not suspect the true nature of the affection in the first 
instance. But as the disease advances the appetite becomes 
more impaired ; there is great depression, thirst, tympanitis 
not unfrequently, general wasting, marasmus, and marked 
prostration. 

The feeces are thin and watery and offensive, and are 


DISEASES OF THE INTESTINES. Jot 


238 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


sometimes voided with abdominal pain, and there is much — 
straining and irritation about the rectum and anus. 7 

If examined, the alvine discharges are observed to be 
made up of mucus, blood in varying degrees of coagulation 
and decomposition, small portions of indigestible matter, 
shreds of sloughing mucous s membrane, and but very little 
true feecal matter. 

Prognosis.—In mild cases the prognosis is favourable, but 
in severe ones there 1s very little hope of recovery. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Dysentery consists in inflammation of 
a diphtheritic character, being characterized by the forma- 
tion of a greyish fibrinous material on the i ag of the 
mucous membrane. | 

The large intestine is generally involved, the small being 
rarely Pee 

The inflammation is at first of a patchy character, and 
may have a favourable termination, or ulceration follows, and 
dark-coloured irregular sloughs of variable extent are formed. 

Treatment.—In the treatment of dysentery it is at first 
necessary to attend to the sanitary conditions. : 

The animal should be kept at rest, and the diet should 
be of an easily digestible, fairly nutritious, moist kind. 

A small dose of oil may be given in the first instance, 
and this should be followed up by the administration of 
opium and antacids foratime. If the progress of the disease 
is not arrested, astringents, such as tannic acid, alum, per- 
chloride or sulphate of iron, catechu, and bael fruit, may be 
tried. Nitrate of silver in solution, sulphate of copper, or 

acetate of lead with opium in the form of a ball, are 
recommended. 

In order to act as a deodorizer and antiseptic, carbolic acid 
cr hyposulphite of soda are indicated. Ipecacuanha* given 


_ ™ Ipecacuanha is regarded as a specific in the treatment of dysentery 
in man. 


DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM. 239 


ed 


in combination with opium is also said to be of great value 
in the treatment of this disease. 


SECTION Y. 
DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM. 
PERITONITIS. 

b Riialogy. —Peritonitis (wzgrevw, I stretch around), or 
inflammation of the serous covering of the abdominal viscera 
and walls, is not a common disease in the horse, though it 
may be set up by a variety of causes. 

Idiopathic or primary peritonitis is met with as the 
result of exposure to cold and damp, and is of greater fre- 
quency as a sub-acute or chronic disease than as an acute 
affection. It is not uncommonly observed in this sub-acute 
or chronic form in young horses from exposure and in- 
sufficient diet. 

Traumatic peritonitis* is the form which follows the 
infliction of wounds of the abdomen, and various surgical 
proceedings, as castration and operations for hernia. 

Sometimes inflammation of the peritoneum occurs as the 
result of injuries from within, as rupture or perforation of 
the organs in connection with it. 

As instances may be given rupture of the walls of the 
stomach or intestine, or of the liver, spleen, or kidney, or 
of an abcess or hydatid in the substance, or in connection 
with the various abdominal organs. 

Sometimes peritonitis follows bursting of the bladder from 
over-distension. 

General or locaiized peritonitis may also be set up~ by 
propagation of inflammation from the bowels, liver, uterus, 
and mammary glands. : 

Lastly, secondary or sympathetic peritonitis occurs in some 


* Traumatic peritonitis will be more fully considered in our Manual 
of the Theory and Practice of Surgery. 


240 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


general diseases, for example, in certain specific fevers and 
constitutional diseases. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of peritonitis are very 
variable. 

Acute idiopathic peritonitis is usually sudden in its onset, 
whereas the sub-acute or chronic form is slow and in- 
sidious in the development and manifestation of its 
symptoms. 

The animal shows signs of abdominal pain, is restless, 
and paws the ground with its fore-feet. The pulse is small 
and wiry ; the respirations hurried, shallow, and thoracic, 
and the temperature elevated. 

The abdomen is tender, sometimes exceedingly so, when 
pressed upon, and is sometimes tympanitic. 

The appetite is lost, and ascites may be developed. 

In peritonitis following the infliction of injuries, the 
abdominal pain is generally more severe than ‘in the idio- 
pathic form. 

Prognosis.—When general, peritonitis is fatal in most 
instances, 

Morbid Anatomy.—As in the inflammation of other 
serous membranes, the stage of congestion is followed by 
the exudation of lymph, with or without the effusion of 
fluid, and by the proliferation, or ‘ germination,’ of the 
endothelial cells which line the free surfaces of the peri- 
toneal membrane. 

The membrane becomes thickened, not, as a rule, 
uniformly, but especially in localized areas, in patches or 
streaks. 

The lymph effused is yellow, forming a layer of variable 
thickness on the surface of the peritoneum, and leads to 
adhesions between the opposed surfaces. The adhesions 
become more coherent by age. The fluid effused may be 
small in amount, or abundant, especially in some forms, and 


ji 


DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM. 241 


holds flakes of lymph in suspension. Sometimes it is puru- 
lent or contains blood. 

Treatment.—In strong plethoric animals, blood may be 
abstracted in acute peritonitis, and internally Fleming’s 
tincture of aconite, with full doses of opium, or the hypo- 
dermic injection of morphia is indicated in order to allay 
the pain, and to quiet the movements of the intestines. 

Locally hot fomentations should be applied to the 
abdomen, and may be followed up by the use of stimulating 
liniments containing opium. 

To the water or gruel which may be allowed freely to 
allay the thirst, solution of acetate of ammonium, or 
other saline’: medicine may be added. After abatement 
of the acute symptoms, half-drachm doses of digitalis 
with nitric ether, and solution of ammonium acetate may 
be given every three or four hours. 

In chronic cases, good nutritious diet and careful atten- 
tion to the sanitary condition are of first importance. 
Internally, vegetable and mineral tonics take the place of 
the bleeding and sedatives recommended in the acute form. 
If there be much abdominal pain, it may be combated by 
the administration of opium or morphia in small doses. 

Stimulating liniments may be applied to the abdo- 
men. 

ASCITES.—Etiology.—-The presence of serous fluid in 
the peritoneum is termed ascites (doxos, a leather bag, or 
wine skin). This condition is often associated with anasarca, 
or general dropsy, and may be due to a variety of causes : 

1. Chronic peritonitis. 

2. Disease of the walls or valves of the heart. 

3. Obstruction of the portal circulation, from disease of 
the liver, 

4, Renal disease. 

5. Enlargement, or other disease of the spleen. 

| 16 


249 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


6. Deposits and new formations on the omentum or 
mesentery. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms are insidious when unasso- 
ciated with some special disease. 

The animal is dull, listless, loses flesh, and becomes weak 
and debilitated. 

The abdomen becomes gradually and eens dis- 
tended, and if there is much fluid present, dulness is mani- 
fested on percussion, and fluctuation may be felt. 

The animal loses his appetite, and the pulse is weak 
and accelerated. 

The symptoms, however, will vary much with the con- 
ditions on which the effusion depends, and in many in- 
stances cedema of the limbs and lower parts of the body 
follows. 

The urine is scanty, and if the kidneys are diseased, con- 
tains albumen in greater or lesser amount. If the liver is 
at fault, the urinary secretion may contain bile-salts and 
bile-pigment. 

Morbid Anatomy.—In many instances there is more or 
less thickening and structural change in the peritoneum. 
These changes are especially marked in ascites, resulting in 
chronic or sub-acute inflammation of the peritoneum. 

In some cases there is no detectable change found in this 
menibrane after death. In ascites depending on disease of 
the heart, liver, or spleen, or on morbid growths in con- 
nection with the peritoneum, lesions, varying with the 
nature of the affections, are found in the organ at fault. 

The fluid varies much in amount. It is usually clear, 
slightly viscid, alkaline, of a yellow or green tinge, and — 
contains a large quantity of albumen. When following © 
inflammation, it is turbid and flaky. 

Treatment.—The treatment of ascites chiefly depends 
upon the disease with which it is associated. We have 


DISEASES OF THE PERITONEUM. 243 


already spoken of the treatment of chronic peritonitis, and 
have only to add that if the fluid effused still remains un- 

- absorbed, preparations of iron and vegetable tonics, with 
diuretics and the occasional administration of some pur- 
gative, are called for, in order to promote the general 
health and aid in the absorption of the fluid. 

The iodide of iron, or the liquor ferri perchloridi, are 
more especially beneficial under these conditions. 

When the ascites is due to cardiac mischief, in addition 
to the special treatment of the heart itself, diuretics and 
hydragogue purgatives are indicated. 

Ii depending on renal disturbance, stimulating diuretics 
are inadmissible. Under these circumstances, perchloride 
or iodide of iron is very beneficial. 

When the amount of the fluid effused is very great, and 
does not diminish after the employment of medicines, para- 
centesis of the abdomen may be performed, and repeated, 
if necessary. This operation, however, rarely affords per- 
manent relief. - 

MORBID GROWTHS IN CONNECTION WITH THE 
PERITONEUM.—Aydatid cysts* and cancerous growths are 
sometimes developed in connection with the peritoneum. 

Cancerous growths of the peritoneum nearly always 
spread from some neighbouring organ, and very rarely ap- 
pear primarily in this serous membrane. 

Fatty growths and fibroid tumours are not uncommonly 
met with in connection with folds of the omentum and 
mesentery, and in other situations. Some of these tumours 
are pedunculated, and are thus liable to strangulate the in- 
testine by entwining their necks around it. 

These tumours cannot be diagnosed during life. 


* Vide Chapter on Animal Parasites. 


16—2 


244 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


SECTION VI. 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER, 


GENERAL PHYSIOLOGICAL AND PATHOLOGICAL 
CONSIDERATIONS. 


Diseases of the liver are of far Jess frequent occurrence 
in the horse than in man, but they are nevertheless of 
great importance, owing to the many and varied functions 
performed by this organ in health. 

The liver has at least three important functions. 

In the first place, it is concerned in the elaboration and 
secretion of bile. Secondly, amyloid and saccharine sub- 
stances, brought to it by the portal vessels from the alimen- 
tary canal, are converted into glycogen. 

Glycogen (C,H,,0,), or animal starch, is a substance re- 
sembling dextrin, and is similarly convertible into sugar 
by the action of albuminoid ferments. It is formed and 
stored up in the hepatic cells, whence it is removed as re- 
quired by the hepatic veins, and is thus distributed through- 
out the system to be used as required. 

It is used partly for the maintenance of the bodily heat, 
which is generated during its oxidization into carbonic acid 
and water, and partly to take an important share in the 
growth, development, and functional activity of cells, and 
also probably in the development of the blood corpuscles. 

Glycogen is in all probability convertible into fat in the 
system. 

Thirdly, the liver is concerned in the reduction of various 
albuminous matters brought to it into simpler compounds. 

The latter include glycogen, leucin, tyrosin, uric acid, 
hippuric acid, and urea, | 

Of the clinical features of hepatic disease, jaundice, local 
pain in the region of the liver, manifestation of colicky pain, 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 945 


persistent pain in the off-shoulder, ascites, congestion and 
enlargement of the spleen are among those most commoniy 
met with. 

From a comparative pathological point of view it is most 
interesting to observe how closely these manifestations of 
hepatic disorder correspond with those presented by man, 
in whom the lameness in the right fore-limb is represented 
by pain in the right shoulder. 

Pain, indeed, may be the primary factor in pike produc- 
tion of this kind of lameness in the horse. 


CONGESTION OF THE LIVER—INTERSTITIAL 
HEPATITIS. 


Nature and Varieties.—Congestion or engorgement of 
the liver with blood, or with biliary secretion, is probably 
the most common of the hepatic diseases of the horse, and 
is of three varieties, (1) active, (2) passive, and (3) biliary. 

1. Active Congestion.—Active congestion of the liver always 
accompanies the process of digestion in health, but.it is apt 
to exceed the normal limits if the food be supplied in ex- 
cess, or if it be of a too highly stimulating nature. 

2. Passive Congestion.—Passive congestion is the form 
most commonly met with, and is due to obstruction of the 
circulation through the hepatic and portal veins. This 
variety of congestion is more especially associated with ob- 
struction of the blood-flow, depending on dilatation or 
valvular disease of the heart, or on disease of the pulmonary 
organs. 

3. Biliary Congestion. Reciinit congestion, or over-filling 
of the small bile-ducts with secretion, may arise from active 
or passive hyperemia, or from both. It is due to obstruc- 
tion in the ducts from the presence of parasites or other 
foreign bodies, or to inflammation of the mucous membrane. 
It usually gives rise to pain, and is sometimes associated 


246 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


with epizootic diseases. When influenza is accompanied by 
this form of congestion of the liver, it is termed bilious or 
biliary influenza. 

Etiology.—The chief causes of the various forms of hepatic 
congestion are, previous pulmonary or cardiac diseases, 
specific fevers, dietetic errors, chills from exposure, and 
over-exertion of plethoric animals after a full meal. 

Symptoms.—Slight jaundice, evidenced by the yellow 
tinge of the conjunctive, is usually a noticeable feature, 
especially in the variety described as biliary congestion. 

Signs of digestive disturbance, such as loss of appetite 
and irregular action of the bowels, are usually manifested. 
Febrile symptoms are rarely present, unless the congestion 
be associated with some specific fever. 

The extremities are cold, and pressure over the region of 
the liver causes pain. 

The urine is generally scanty, and is more highly 
coloured than normally, and not ‘unfrequently contains bile 
pigment. 

Morbid Anatomy.—When congested, the liver is often 
considerably enlarged, from the great amount of blood it 
contains. ‘This is especially the case in passive hyperemia 
of this organ. The term nutmeg liver is applied to the 
peculiar variegated appearance of the surface on section 
which is found in cases of long-standing mechanical con- 
gestion. 

This condition is characterized by a large accumulation 
of blood in the hepatic veins, which become dilated and 
thickened ; by atrophy of the hepatic cells in the central 
portions of the lobules, and by increase of the inter-lobular 
connective-tissue. 

The impediment to the return of blood causes the atrophy 
of the hepatic cells, and the formation of granules of pig- 
ment. When examined microscopically, the lobules are 


iemy 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 247 


seen to be made up of broken-down cells and pigment 
granules. 

On section, the liver presents a mottled appearance, the 
centre of the lobules being a dark red colour, whilst the 
peripheral parts are of a yellowish white. 

The veins are found to be much dilated and filled with 
red cells. 

Not infrequently, blood extravasations and ruptures, 
owing to the engorgement, are met with as the result 
of repeated attacks of congestion and inflammation of the 
liver. 

When these ruptures or extravasations are very extensive 
and serious, they are manifested during life by collapse or 
sudden pain. When less extensive there may be no diag- 
nostic symptoms, beyond perhaps a little abdominal pain, 
which may not attract our attention. 

Treatment.—In cases where the congestion is not due to 
cardiac or pulmonary disease, and where the onset is sudden, 
bleeding the animal in proportion to his size and condition 
is recommended. 

In congestion of the liver associated with the specific 
fevers, however, it is not advisable to abstract blood. 

The blood-letting should be followed up by the use of 
moderate doses of aloes, and the subsequent administration 
of salines, such as sulphate of soda, or sulphate of 
magnesia. 

When the congestion is gradually developed and is 
dependent on dietetic errors, or want of proper exercise, it 
is of first importance to restrict the amount of food, and 
attend to the sanitary conditions. In addition, salines, 
such as those above recommended, may be given in the 
drinking-water. 

When associated with some specific fever, the treatment 
need not materially differ from that of the primary malady. 


248 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


External applications, such as stimulating liniments 
or warm-water fomentations, are recommended by some 
authorities in the treatment of cases of congestion. 

In order to prevent the recurrence of these affections of 
the liver, the diet should be limited and regular exercise 
should be enjoined. 


HEPATITIS—INFLAMMATION OF THE LIVER. 


Hepatitis (jap, the liver; itis), or inflammation of the 

liver, may involve the capsule (Glisson’s capsule), and its 
prolongations into the tissue of the gland, or it may affect 
the secreting structures of the organ. 
_ 1. Inflammation of the Capsule of the Liver.—Peri-hepa- 
titis. —This disease is occasionally met with as a sequel or 
accompaniment of pleurisy, and sometimes it may follow 
inflammation of the peritoneum. 

This disease cannot be diagnosed during life. 

2. Inflammation of the Gland Tissue—Hepatitis.—In- 
flammation of the glandular structure is rarely met with 
in the horse. It may occur in a localized or in a diffused 
form, and its causes are in many cases similar to those of 
congestion. 

In hot countries it assumes an epizootic form, especially 
about the end of summer, and it is almost always connected 
with disease of the other abdominal organs (Gamgee). 
Hepatitis is very difficult to diagnose with certainty from 
acute congestion. 

Localized hepatic inflammation, terminating in the forma- 
tion of abscess, is rare in the horse, but secondary abscesses 
are frequently formed in the liver in pyzemia, and may be 
very numerous. 

It seems probable that some cases described as hepatitis 
are in reality instances of active congestion of the liver. 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 249 


CIRRHOSIS OF THE LIVER—CHRONIC INTER- 
STITIAL HEPATITIS. 


Etiology.—Cirrhosis (/ppos, yellow), though of more fre- 
quent occurrence in the horse than acute inflammations of 
the liver, is far more rarely met with than in man. 

Very little, indeed, is actually known of its causes in 
animals. In man, as is well known, the chief agent in its 
production is abuse of alcoholic liquors, and, with the ex- 
ception of syphilis, no other cause of this condition has been 
with any certainty ascertained. 

Defective and insufficient food-supply are said by some 
to be the causes of cirrhosis in the horse ; but, though this 
may be so, nevertheless in some undoubted cases good food 
has been supplied in abundance. 

By others, cirrhosis is said to follow repeated attacks of 
inflammation and congestion of the liver. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of cirrhosis are not as yet 
clearly known. Among the most important are ascites, 
congestion and irritability of the intestinal mucous mem- 
brane, dyspepsia, impaired appetite, and loss of flesh. Some- 
times indications of jaundice may be manifested, and the 
liver may be tender on pressure. There are rarely any 
febrile symptoms. 

As a result of the congestion of the intestinal canal, 
gastric and intestinal hemorrhage may follow, though this 
is @ very rare occurrence. 

Morbid Anatomy.—In the early stage of cirrhosis the 
liver is enlarged, from the gradual increase in the connective- 
tissue in the organ. 

Cirrhosis consists in a cellular infiltration of the inter- 
lobular tissue, and in the development ofa more or less 
highly organized fibroid structure, which is supplied with 
new blood-vessels from branches of the hepatic artery. 


250 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Gradually the fibroid structure contracts, and thus the 
liver becomes smaller, and altered in form. The hepatic 
cells undergo fatty degeneration, and the lobular vessels 
and ducts are compressed and obliterated. In consequence 
of this, the portal circulation is obstructed, and ascites and 
congestion of the abdominal viscera result. 

Treatment.—lIn the first place, the diet should be care- 
fully attended to. Internally, sulphate of sodium or of 
magnesium may be given twice daily, with vegetable tonics. 

If there be ascites, diuretics may be administered in ad- 
dition to salines and tonics. 

In some cases it may be necessary to perform para- 
centesis abdominis. 

FATTY LIVER.—Fatty changes in the organs of the 
body are due to infiltration of the tissue with fat, or to de- 
generation or conversion of the albuminous substance into 
fat. ; | 

Fatty liver is strictly an infiltration, but the term is used 
to include both these forms of change. 

In the horse, fatty changes in the liver are traceable to 
overfeeding and want of sufficient exercise. 

The blood becomes loaded with fatty materials, which are 
first deposited in the hepatic cells of the circumference of 
the lobules, and then gradually extend -inwards. 

The liver thus usually becomes enlarged, and increased 
in weight, and its margin becomes rounder and its surface 
smoother. It is of a soft or doughy consistence, and shows 
a pale, greasy surface on section. 

In this affection there is no ascites or jaundice, but the 
functions of the liver are impaired if the fatty change is 
considerable. 

The only treatment consists in regulation of the amount 
of exercise and limitation of the diet, and in the occasional 
administration of a purgative. 


a. «_ 4s 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 251 


LARDACEOUS LIVER.—Lardaceous degeneration of 
the liver is sometimes met with after death, but there are 
no clinical symptoms by which it may be positively diagnosed 
during life. 

The characters and appearances presented by lardaceous 
degeneration of the various organs of the body has already 
been described (page 31). When involving the liver, the 
conversion of the albuminous substances into lardacein 
usually commences in the middle zone of the lobules, cor- 
responding with the distribution of the hepatic artery. 

Lardaceous degeneration of the liver is often accompanied 
by similar changes in other abdominal organs, and is 


attended by general impairment of health and progressive 
loss of flesh. 3 


HYDATID TUMOURS AND OTHER MORBID 
GROWTHS OF THE LIVER. 


Hydatid Tumours.—Hydatid tumours (ida71s, a vesicle) — 
are usually due to the development of the cysticercal embryo 
of the Tenia Echinococcus of dogs. 

They are not of common occurrence in the horse, though 
the liver is perhaps more frequently their seat than any 
other organ. ) 

. The relationship between a cysticercus and its fully de- 
veloped mature tapeworm is described in the Chapter on 
Animal Parasites, to which the reader is referred for the 
full history. 

_ A hydatid tumour consists of a primary sac or bladder, 
with thick, soft, transparent, and laminated walls, the 
innermost layer of which is formed by a delicate cellular 
membrane. The sac (mother-cyst) is filled with clear, 
limpid fluid, in which are numerous daughter-cysts. On 
the inner surface of these secondary cysts there are situated 
many little prominences, which consist of small vesicular 


252 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


bodies, each surmounted by a head. These are the imma- 
ture forms of the Tzenia Echinococcus. 

The tumours do not present any symptoms by which their 
presence can be diagnosed. 

Cancerous Tumours.— When infiltrated with nodular or 
diffuse so-called cancerous tumours, the liver is enlarged, 
and may be altered in shape. 

Some of these morbid growths spread rapidly, while 
others extend much more slowly. 

The growths are of rare occurrence in the horse. 

Melanotic Deposits.—Melanotic growths are occasionally 
found in the liver in circumscribed patches, or in diffused 
masses. 

Lymphoid Tumours.—Lymphoid growths, when occur- 
ring in the liver, are often numerous. They occur as smooth 
nodules of varying size. 


JAUNDICE—ICTERUS. 


Jaundice is, strictly speaking, a symptom of many affec- 
tions in which the tissues of the body are dyed yellow ; 
but it is of such importance as to merit a separate de- 
scription. Jaundice (jawnir, to become yellow), or icterus 
(ixz<20s, a yellow bird), is so called from the yellow dis- 
colouration of the conjunctive, skin, and visible mucous 
membranes, due to impregnation with the biliary pigment. 

Etiology.—Jaundice may be due to— 

(a) Excess of bile im the blood.—This may = caused by 
obstruction to the flow of bile into the duodenum, leading 
to absorption of the secretion by the blood, which thus 
becomes contaminated. 

Obstruction may depend on catarrhal inflammation of the 
mucous membrane of the ducts, or upon the presence of 
foreign bodies in the bile-duct. 


DISEASES OF THE LIVER. 253 


Excess of bile in the blood may also depend upon exces- 
sive secretion, which also leads to absorption. 

This occurs in hepatic congestion. 

(>) Suppression of the secretion of bile, or interference with 
ats metamorphosis.—This may occur in certain specific fevers 
and general disorders ; for example, influenza and pyzmia. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of jaundice are rarely well 
marked in the horse. As a result of impregnation with 
bile pigment, the tissues soon become stained yellowish ; 
the conjunctive, skin, and the visible mucous membranes 
more especially show the yellow staining. 

The urine becomes more deeply coloured from the pre- 
sence of bile pigment, and the motions become drier and 
of lighter colour, from the deficiency of bile flowing into the 
duodenum. 

Unless jaundice follows a general or specific disease, there 
are usually no febrile manifestations, and the pulse is in 
most instances not accelerated, and the temperature similarly 
remains normal, 

In some cases loss of appetite and digestive disturbance 
are marked features, and depression, languor, and incapacity 
for exertion follow. 

Itching and cutaneous eruptions on the skin are occasion- 
ally met with in severe cases. 

Lameness in the off-shoulder is in some instances an accom- 
paniment of jaundice. 

Tests for Bile Pigment and Bile Acids :— 

Gmelin’s test for bile pigment in the urine.—Add a drop or 
two of strong nitric acid to a small quantity of urine on a 
piece of white porcelain, when, if there is bile pigment pre- 
sent, there will be a play of colours, passing through green, 
blue, violet, and red, into a dirty yellow. 

Petienkofer’s test for bile acids in the urine.—Add to a small 
quantity of the urine, in a test tube, a very small quantity 


254 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of cane sugar, and afterwards pour in some strong sulphuric 
acid very slowly. If bile acids be present, there will be first 
thrown down a white precipitate of cholalic acid, and after- 
wards the whole of the liquid will become of a deep, beau- 
tiful purple colour. This reaction is facilitated by gently 
warming the side of the test tube. 

Treatment.— When jaundice is developed in connection 
with a specific fever, no special treatment is required, unless 
the symptoms be of a very pronounced character. 

In other cases the treatment depends upon the cause of 
the affection. 

In the first place it is necessary to increase the amount of 
exercise, if this be insufficient, and to restrict the amount of 
food allowed. 

Mild cases may require no further treatment beyond the 
occasional administration of saline purgatives, or moderate 
doses of aloes. 

When depending on hepatic congestion, the treatment is 
similar to that already described under this affection. 

If jaundice be attended with much debility and languor, 
vegetable tonics, with doses of nitro-hydrochloric acid, may 
be given three times daily. 

Besides the remedies already mentioned, chloride of 
ammonium and calomel, in moderate doses, are also recom- 
mended in some forms of jaundice. 


SEcTION VII. 
DISEASES OF THE SPLEEN. 


General Physiological Considerations.—Very little is 
known of the functions of the spleen. In this organ white 
blood corpuscles appear to be formed, and red corpuscles 
to be broken down. The spleen receives an abundant 
supply of blood, and undergoes considerable changes in 


DISEASES OF THE SPLEEN. 955 


volume. It has movements of contraction and expansion, 


which are slow and rhythmical. ‘The spleen may be exter- 
minated in animals and man without any serious ill effect. 
Hypertrophy of some of the lymphatic glands, and red 
marrow of bones follows, and these tissues probably take 
on a vicarious function. The blood coming from the spleen 
is sald to contain a larger number of white cells than that 
entering it. 

In diseases in which the spleen is enlarged, the blood 
contains a large excess of white cells. 

Diseases of the spleen are very rarely, if ever, diagnosed 


in the horse during life, though various pathological changes 


are not uncommonly met with in making post-mortem 


- examinations. 


Enlargement of the Spleen.—Enlargement of the spleen 
is of rare occurrence, except when depending on abnormal 
growths, as lymphadenoma and melanosis. 

Lymphadenoma.—Lymphadenoma of the spleen is some- 
times found as greyish masses of about the size of a cherry, 
and sometimes still larger. 

These formations in the spleen are said by some to be 
accompanied by leucocythemia (A¢vx0s, white ; xuros, acell; 
and dima, blood) in many cases. 

There are no diagnostic symptoms by which these tumours 
can be recognised during life. 

They are, however, not unfrequently accompanied by 
anemia, anorexia, and loss of flesh. 

When examined microscopically, we have found these 
tumours of the spleen to be composed of an adenoid reti- 
culum, or network of fine homogeneous fibrils, the meshes 
of which are completely occupied by lymph corpuscles. 

Other Morbid Growths of the Spleen.—Cancer, melanotic 
growths, and lardaceous degeneration are sometimes met 
with after death, but cannot be diagnosed during life. 


CHAPTER VIII 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 
THE URINE IN HEALTH AND IN DISEASE. 


As renal diseases are intimately connected with alterations 
in the character of the urinary secretion, a knowledge of 
the chemical composition of the urine, and of the alterations 
it may undergo in disease, is of great importance. 

THE URINE IN HEALTH.—Healthy urine is an amber- 
coloured fluid, varying in composition in: different animals, 
but containing in all analogous products of nitrogenous 
waste and various salts, 

In the carnivorous animal it is a clear watery fluid of 
acid reaction. In herbivorous animals it is either alkaline 
when secreted, or very soon becomes so ; and is often cloudy, 
depositing a sediment on standing. 

These differences in the character of the urine depend 
upon the nature of the food of the animal. 

If a herbivore be fed solely upon a nitrogenous diet, the 
urine becomes acid, as also it does in certain diseases. In 
inanition, also, where the body may be said to feed upon its 
own tissues, the urine of herbivora likewise becomes acid. 
Similarly, if a carnivorous animal be fed upon vegetables, 
the urine becomes alkaline and cloudy. 

The urine of the mammalia contains a large amount of 
water, and in the horse has a specific gravity of 1030—1050. 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 257 


According to our own investigations the average of a large 
number of estimates of the specific gravity of the urine is 
1041°2, 

The actual amount of urine passed per day is estimated 
by Colin at 15—-25 litres (44:033—61°646 pints) ; this esti- 
mate gives an average 20 litresa day. This amount is some- 
what in excess of the average—18°91 litres—found by us in 
a number of cases. 

The quantity of water in 1,000 parts of urine has been 
estimated at 880—-930 (Von Bibra and others). 

The chief constituents of the urine are water, products of 
nitrogenous decomposition, of which urea is the most im- 
portant, hippuric and uric acids, inorganic salts, extractives 
and colouring matters. 

The actual amount of solids in 100 parts of urine of the 
horse we have estimated to average 8°955. 

Urea.—Urea is by far the most important of the solid 
constituents of the urine. It is derived from the disinte- 
gration or metamorphosis of albuminous and albuminoid 
substances of the food and of the tissues, and contains most 
of the nitrogen which was originally incorporated with the 
substances from which it is derived. 

Urea, or carbamide (CO(NH,),) is isomeric with am- 
monium cyanate (NH,CNO, or CH,N,O). It is excessively 
soluble in water, from which it crystallizes in white silky 
needles or transparent four-sided prisms, the ends of which 
are often formed by one or two inclined planes. 

It has a bitter saline taste, is colourless, soluble in alcohol, 
but insoluble in ether. 

Nitrate of urea may be obtained in considerable quantities 
by the addition of excess of nitric acid to concentrated urine. 

This salt crystallizes in rhombic prisms or plates, having a 
characteristic imbricated arrangement and mother-of-pearl 


lustre. 
17 


eS 


258 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Oxalic acid similarly throws down oxalate of urea, which 
crystallizes in rhombic plates or prisms. 

In the urine of the horse the urea bears a proportion of 
about 1 to 8, or 1 to 9, of all the solids (Gamgee). 

The amount of urea secreted bears a definite relation to 
the amount of food taken into the system. It is largest 
when the food is albuminous and abundant; it is rapidly 
diminished by starvation, and gradually by a diet containing 
a large proportion of amylaceous or starchy matter. 

It is augmented by increased amount of water drunk, and 
by the ingestion of sodium chloride and ammonium salts. 

Urea is probably to a great extent formed in the liver, 
and its amount is most likely largely influenced by the con- 
dition of the hepatic cells and by the activity of the hepatic 
circulation. 

Urea is also increased in many febrile disorders. In acute 
pneumonia and in laminitis we have especially noted a very 
large increase in the amount passed, and have already spoken 
of the amount in azoturia. (Vide ‘ Azoturia.’) 

Retention of urea in the blood in interference with the 
secretion of urine is associated for the most part with organic 
renal disease, though it may also be due to obstruction in the 
ureters. Urea, when thus retained in the blood, gives rise to 
an ageregate of symptoms termed Ureemia. 

Uric Acid.—The urinary secretion of herbivorous animals 
contains little or no uric acid (C,;H,N,O,), as this sub- 
stance is represented in them by hippuric acid. It occurs, 
however, in the urine of man, and in that of almost all 
carnivorous animals. Uric acid can be crystallized from 
urine containing it by adding hydrochloric acid, which by 
decomposing the urates sets the uric acid free. 

The most common forms of uric acid crystals are the 
whetstone-shaped, and the sheaf-like bundles of flattened 
needles, 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 959 


Uric acid is insoluble in alcohol and ether, and very 
feebly soluble in water. 

Hippuric Acid.—Hippuric acid (C,H,NO,) occurs in 
very small proportion in the urine of man (less than ‘1 per 
cent.) and carnivora, but is present in abundance as 
alkaline hippurates in that of herbivorous animals. Hippuric 
acid is a beautiful white crystalline substance, soluble in 
400 parts of cold water. It is also soluble in ether and 
alcohol. : 

When the quantity of urea in the urine is small, that of 
hippuric acid is large, and vice versé. It varies from five 
to fifteen parts in 1,000 of the urine of the horse (Bibra). 

Hippuric acid crystallizes in long, transparent, four-sided 
prisms, and may be readily obtained by boiling the urine of 
an herbivore and adding hydrochloric acid. 

It is noteworthy that in all animals in which the urine 
contains much hippuric acid, as in the horse, indigo is also 
present in relatively large quantities (Sanderson). 

Hippuric acid is said to be formed in the system from the 
benzoic acid, or bodies which yield benzoic acid, which is 
ingested. 

This acid is also said to appear in the urine of man and ' 
herbivora whenever benzoic acid (C,H,O,) enters the 
system, glycin (glycocoll) being taken up and water given 
off. 

Extractives.—The extractives found in the urine of the 
horse are creatin, creatinin, lactic acid, benzoic acid, and 
several others. 

Pigmentary Matter. — The pigmentary or colouring 
matters of the urine of the horse are not of much physio- 
logical importance. 

Inorganic Salts.—The urine of carnivora contains 
sulphates, chlorides, and phosphates; that of herbivora 
contains a large percentage of carbonates, with some 

17—2 


260 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


sulphates and chlorides. The urine of the latter, therefore, 
is found to effervesce on the addition of an acid. The chief 
metallic elements found in the urine are sodium, magne- 
sium, calcium, and potassium. 

Von Bibra found in 1,000 parts of the urine of the horse 
42°20 parts of salts, which were composed of 78°37 per 
cent. of carbonates of lime, magnesium, potassium, and 
sodium ; 13-04 per cent. of sulphate of potassium ; 6°94 of 
chloride of sodium, and ‘055 of silica. 

The deposit which settled on allowing the urine to rest, 
being analyzed three times by Von Bibra, was found by 
him to have the following composition : 


I. II. III. 
Carbonate of Calcium ...... 80°9 87°2 87°5 
Carbonate of Magnesium ...| 12:1 75 8°5 
Organic: Material ...cccme: rf ee 4°3 


THE URINE IN DISEASE.—In some diseases one or 
more of the normal constituents of the urine are increased, 
while in other affections they may be diminished in amount. 
Moreover, various abnormal constituents may be found in 
the urine in disease which are not present in health. 

INCREASE OR DIMINUTION OF THE NORMAL 
CONSTITUENTS.—The amount of urine passed varies 
considerably, even in health. ‘Some diseases, however, are 
especially characterized by an increase, while in others the 
secretion is much diminished. The urine is always scanty 
in febrile conditions and in acute inflammation of the 
kidneys, and may be almost or quite suppressed, as in 
collapse. 

In diabetes insipidus, or hydruria, and in certain other 
conditions, as when diuretics are taken, the urine is in- 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 261 


creased, owing to the excess of water eliminated through 
the kidneys. 

The amount of urine may be much increased without any 
augmentation in the amount of solid constituents. 

The specific gravity of the urine, however, is, as a rule, in 
inverse proportion to the amount passed; but under some 
conditions, as in diabetes mellitus, the density is high, 
although the urine is abundant. Again, we cannot con- 
clude that there is an excess of solids present when the 
specific gravity is high, for this may be due to deficiency 
of water. 

The re-action of the urine is normally alkaline, though in 
certain diseases it sometimes becomes acid. The reaction 
may be tested by litmus paper. If alkaline, urine turns red 
litmus blue; if acid, it turns blue litmus red. 

We have already said that the amount of urea excreted 
may be increased or diminished under various abnormal 
conditions. 

ABNORMAL CONSTITUENTS PRESENT IN THE 
URINE IN DISEASE.—Blood.—Blood is sometimes present 
in the urinary secretion, and may be derived from the 
kidneys, ureter, bladder, or from the urethra. 

The passing of blood in the urine is termed hematuria. 

When the blood has its source in the kidneys, it gives a 
general red or brownish smoky hue to the urine ; which, on 
standing, deposits a brownish red sediment, in which blood- 
casts are often present. | 

In hemorrhage from the bladder, the blood is far less 
intimately mixed with the urine, and often appears only 
toward the end of micturition, while the urine is of a 
pinkish or blood-red colour, and is associated with the 
symptoms of vesical disease. 

Where blood is derived from the urethra, it is voided 
independently of micturition. 


262 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The causes of renal hemorrhage ma be arranged in two 
classes : 

1. Local pathological lesions, viz., 

(a) Those due to congestion orinflammation of the kidneys. 

(5) Cancerous or melanotic growths, or the presence of 
calculi in the kidney. 

2. Symptomatic causes, or those. depending upon some 
general or constitutional disease. 

Blood-casts, or moulds of the uriniferous tubes formed by 
the coagulation of the blood in their lumina, are not un- 
commonly found in the urine in cases of renal hemorrhage. 

Blood in the urine may be detected by the presence of 
the red corpuscles seen in it when examined microscopically. 

The appearance of the cells varies somewhat according 
to the specific gravity of the urine ; if it be high, the cells 
are small and shrivelled ; if it be low, they are large, trans- 
parent, and circular. 

The urine may also be tested by the addition of a drop 
or two of tincture of guaiacum and a few drops of ozonized 
ether to a small portion in a test-tube, when, if blood- 
pigment be present, the ether which collects at the top will 
be coloured blue. 

Urine containing blood is of necessity albuminous. 

Albumen.—The presence of albumen in the urine in any 
quantity is of pathological significance. It may be foundin 
the urine from structural changes in the kidney in renal 
congestion, or may be due to the presence of blood or pus. 

Albumen, when present, may readily be detected. 

If the urine be alkaline, as it frequently is, it is first 
necessary in testing it to add a few drops of acetic acid to 
a small portion in a test-tube, in order to slightly acidify it. 
After this the urine should be boiled, when, if albumen be 
present, it will be coagulated, forming opaque flakes, which 
gradually subside to the bottom of the tube. 


r pb 


- DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 263 


Albumen may also be tested for by nitric acid. This 
test consists in pouring into a test-tube a small quantity of 
strong nitric acid, and then pouring very slowly down the 
side of the tube a little of the urine to be examined. If 
albumen be present an opaque white cloud forms immediately 
where the two fluids come into contact. 

A saturated solution of picric acid also precipitates 
albumen, and picric acid tablets are now sold by chemists, 
and afford a ready method by which the presence of albumen 
may be detected. 

Bile Acids and Bile Pigment.—Under the diseases of the 
liver, we have already spoken of the occasional presence of 
bile acid and pigment in the urine, and have given tests by 
which their presence may be recognised. 

Grape Sugar.—Grape sugar is found in the urine in 
diabetes mellitus, under which disease tests by which this 
substance may be detected have been mentioned. 

The fermentation test may also be applied. If a little © 
yeast be added to urine containing sugar, after standing for 
some time in a warm place, it will ferment, with the disen- 
gagement of carbonic acid. 

Pus and Mucus.—Pus is sometimes found in the urine, 
which is albuminous in proportion to the amount of pus 
present. If examined microscopically, the sediment is seen 
to contain pus-cells which are very similar to white blood- 
cells. ‘They are, however, lifeless, and have no ameeboid 
movements, and are characterized by the presence of several 
nuclei. 

SEcTIon I. 


DISEASES OF THE KIDNEYS. 


RENAL CONGESTION. — Etiology and Symptoms.— 
Hyperzemia, or congestion of the kidneys, may be active or 
mechanical. It is not often met with in the horse. 


‘ 


264 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Active congestion constitutes the first stage of inflammation 
of the kidneys, or nephritis. It sometimes occurs as the 
result of acute fevers, and may be induced by the ingestion 
of certain irritants, as turpentine and cantharides, or by the 
action of cold and damp. 

Passive or mechanical congestion depends upon venous ob- 
struction from pulmonary or cardiac disease. 

When examined, the kidneys are seen to be enlarged and 
engorged with blood. 

If the congestion, especially when mechanical, be of long 
duration, important structural changes of a chronic inflam- 
matory nature may follow. | 
_ Renal congestion is usually attended with a scanty secre- 
tion, and if very severe, there may be a quantity of albumen, 
blood, and a few renal casts, but otherwise there are few or 
no general symptoms by which this affection may be 
diagnosed. 

Treatment.— When dependent upon other affections, 
renal congestion must not be treated apart from the general 
disease. 

In other cases, rest, laxatives, and the application of 
warm fomentations to the loins are all that is required. 

INFLAMMATION OF THE KIDNEYS.—NEPHRITIS. 
—Inflammation of the kidneys, or nephritis (védpor, the 
kidney), is of rare occurrence in the horse. 

In acute nephritis, as in all acute inflammations, the 
cellular structure of the organ is chiefly involved, whereas 
when this passes on to the chronic form the changes are 
more especially marked in the iferstitial tissues. 

Inflammation of the pelvis of the kidney, or pyelitis 
(zueAov, pelvis), except when resulting from the irritation 
of a calculus, is of rare occurrence in the horse. Professor 
Williams mentions a case of pyelitis in a foal two days 
old, which died of acute suppurative arthritis. 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 265 


Symptoms of Nephritis—When nephritis supervenes 
on some acutefever, the urine may be noticed to become 
more scanty and highly coloured, and may contain albumen, 
and renal epithelial casts. Blood, and fibrinous or san- 
guineous casts may also be present. | 

The internal temperature is raised still higher, and the 
skin becomes harsh and dry. 

There is usually little or no pain on pressure of the loins 
in this form. | 

In nephritis due to other causes, the symptoms are some- 
what different. ‘There is considerable fever with colicky 
pains, the attack resembling colic, attended by fever. The 
pulse is quickened, and the artery is full, hard, and firm. 
The respirations are short and accelerated, the bowels are 
constipated, and thirst is increased. Jn some instances 
there is stiffness, tenderness in the loins, and arching of 
the back, but these symptoms are not invariably present. 

The most characteristic features of nephritis are the scanty 
elimination or total suppression of urine and the desire to 
micturate frequently. The animal strains violently, but 
may be unable to pass more than a few drops of urine. 

This is highly-coloured, and if examined, albumen, blood, 
and renal casts may generally be detected in it. 

Where, however, no urine is passed, the continued fever, 
abdominal pain, and frequent, though ineffectual, straining 
to micturate, are indicative of inflammation of the kidneys. 
But cases of nephritis are met with sometimes, in which the 
only symptoms are suppression of the urine (ischuria), with 
febrile manifestations, and of this several instances have 
come under our notice. 

In other cases there are signs of pain manifested by lying 
down and rolling about, while at other times the seat of 
pain is pointed at by the animal turning round and 
endeavouring to bite at or scratch the loins. 


266 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


If suppression of the urine be prolonged, other symptoms 
supervene, owing to retention of urea in the blood. The 
accumulation of urea, as we have already indicated, gives 
rise to symptoms of uremic poisoning. The animal becomes 
partially unconscious, but there is no loss of motor power. 

Retention of the urine may, however, continue for several 
days without the manifestation of coma. 

As the urea gradually accumulates in the blood, there is 
a peculiar ammoniacal odour of the breath, which is also 
emitted from the skin and feeces. 

The bowels are usually constipated, and muscular 
twitchings are not uncommon. 

In the stallion, there may be retraction of the testicle on 
‘the affected side. 

Sequele.—Chronic nephritis may be left as asequel after 
the subsidence of an attack of acute inflammation of the 
kidneys, or it may manifest itself as an independent 
affection. 

Atrophy and degeneration of the kidneys may follow 
acute nephritis. 

Morbid Anatomy.—In acute nephritis, one or both 
kidneys are involved. They are much enlarged and 
engorged with blood. The surface is smooth, and the 
capsule is thin and non-adherent. 

On section the colour is of a dark dusky red, and the 
malpighian bodies are of a still darker hue. At a later 
stage the cortical part of the kidney becomes paler or 
mottled, and contrasts strongly with the dark-red bases of 
the pyramids. 

If a section be examined microscopically, the uriniferous 
tubules are found to be filled with epithelial cells in various 
degrees of disintegration, fibrinous material, and blood. 
These changes are more especially marked in the convoluted 
tubes. 


ol. hc 


Tt”  — TT 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 267 


The blood-vessels are distended with blood. In chronic 
_ nephritis supervening on the acute variety, the appearances 
- may differ but little from the above, except in the great 
paleness of the cortex. In all long-standing cases the inter- 
stitial-tissue becomes more involved in the pathological 
change. It first becomes increased in amount, and after- 
wards contracting, leads to contraction and atrophy of the 
kidney. 

In acute pyelitis there is redness, swelling, and ecchy- 
mosis of the lining mucous membrane, and a discharge of 
mucus and pus. 

In chronic pyelitis the mucous lining is thickened, and 
the pelvis is dilated and may be filled with pus, which is 
due to the irritation caused by one or more calculi. Abscesses 
are sometimes found in the cortex of the kidney as the 
result of pyelitis. They may also be formed as the result of 
chronic inflammation of the kidney itself, or from an 
injury. } 

Treatment.—In acute nephritis caused by cold, fatigue, 
or exhaustion, if the pulse be strong, bleeding is very 
beneficial Those cases, however, supervening various 
_ fevers, or due to injury, do not bear depletion so well. 

The bowels should be freely acted upon by the adminis- 
tration of some purgative. Aloes is perhaps the best 
cathartic in the horse. Oil is not so reliable. The 
looseness of the bowels should be kept up by the adminis- 
tration of saline purgatives, such as sulphate of sodium, or 
sulphate of magnesium, which may be given in the water. 
Some authors recommend the administration of opium, if 
the pain be great, but this remedy is best withheld in the 
treatment of nephritis. — 

The pain may be relieved by the application of woollen 
cloths wrung from hot water, or of linseed-meal poultices 
over the loins. 


268 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


= 


The poultices and fomentations may be medicated by the 
addition of belladonna or digitalis, with great advantage. 

The diet should be laxative, consisting of linseed and 
oatmeal gruel, and bran mashes. 

When the acute symptoms have abated, salts of iron and 
vegetable tonics are indicated. 

LARDACEOQUS DEGENERATION OF THE KIDNEY. 
—lLardaceous degeneration is very rare in the le of 
the horse. 

On ‘pathological pee it should be distinguished from 
chronic nephritis. The appearance ofthe kidney resembles 
that of other organs similarly affected. 

MELANOTIC TUMOURS AND HYDATIDS.—Mela- 
notic tumours are sometimes, though rarely, found in the 
kidney of the horse. 

Hydatids of the echinococcus have been met with in the 
kidney, though they are of far commoner occurrence in the 
liver.* 

RENAL AND URETERAL CALCULI —Renal calculi 
are rather rare in the horse, though they are met with in this 
animal more frequently than in any other. Ureteral calculi 
are of such rare occurrence as to require no special descrip- 
tion here. 

Renal calculi are of a brownish-white, sometimes bluish 
colour, of irregular ovoid or nearly spherical shape, often 


* About a month or two ago we had under treatment an aged cart- 
horse suffering from chronic renal disease. The horse had great 
difficulty in passing water, and this contained abundance of pus and 
mucus. After death the post-mortem examination revealed . about 
thirty hydatid cysts in the right kidney. They varied considerably i in 
size, one being as large as a cocoanut ; the others varied from the size of 
a walnut to that of a pea. In the left kidney there were also more than 
a dozen of these cysts, which were for the most part of less size. There 
were none present in the liver, though a great number were found in 
the substance of the psoas muscle. The right kidney was considerably 
atrophied. 


| 
: 


} i 
— aed at 18 4S Be 


sat i ts i Ne et 


abu 1 iin Bde) ie 


4 
a —- 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 269 


nodulated, and always more or less rough, owing to the 
irregular deposition of carbonate of lime. They are placed 
in cysts with firm parietes, which contain a quantity of 
thick urine. They are distinctly laminated, and often 
numerous (Gamgee). 

The deposition of calculi in the kidneys does not often 
cause symptoms by which their presence can be diagnosed. 
The urine, however, is often charged with earthy matter, 
and there may be occasional internal hemorrhage and 
colicky pains, especially after the animal has been severely 
worked or exhausted. 


_ Analysis of Renal Calculi of the Horse (Furstenberg). 


Le ye 3, 4. 5, 6. a 8. 
Sedi 
Corral Round Round pane! men- 
Form. Form. Form , a tary 
Form 


Specific gravity ..]| 2°263) 2°241) 2°121] «2.283 2°194 2°193] 1°918] 1°6 
ee Sur 
Stone. Jace 
Carbonate of lime | 84°20! 69°4 | 85°90] 41°30] 78°46) 73°24] 38°45) 40°57] 89°40 
Carbonate of mag- 
nesia é Yee ie ee a 5°20} 11°04] 4°66) 5°37) 38°29) 16°28} 3°35 
Oxalate of lime 5°31} 6°5 |Trace | 28°46] 15°11] 17°22] 14°49) .. se 
Phosphate of lime se ae fel) ae a - J ; 
Chloride of calcium Trace| .. ‘ : : ne or ; 
Sulphate of lime .. mrace |. .. oS “a eo ee #. “P 
Organic material ..} 6°05| 5°5 7°70| 10°37] 0°56) 2°92) 7°65) 40°72) 4°35 
Water, Iron and 
loss woh ee .9°5 Pap) 6220) 621 61°25) S12) 2°43) = 2°90 
Total .. .-|100°00} 100-0 | 100°00 | 100-00} 100-00} 100:00} 100-00} 100°00; 100-00 


Treatment of Renal Caleulii—Renal calculi 


are best 


treated by the administration of hydrochloric acid. 

The diet should be well regulated. 

In some instances calculi become impacted in the ureter, 
inducing more or less rapid degeneration of the kidney and 


270 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


suppuration in its substance. Their impaction and passage 
along the ureters cause relapsing, excruciating pain. 


SECTION II. 
DISEASES OF THE BLADDER.’ 
CYSTITIS, OR INFLAMMATION OF THE BLADDER. 


Etiology.—Cystitis is rarely met with in the horse. 
It may be caused by the administration of certain irri- 


tants, as cantharides or turpentine, or by the absorption of — 


cantharidine from a blister. It may also be set up by the 
presence of calculi or morbid growths. 

Symptoms.—The animal becomes restless; and shows 
signs of pain; he makes frequent attempts to pass water, 
but micturition is attended with difficulty and pain. 

There are also signs of constitutional fever. If the 
cystitis be due to cantharides, or croton oil administered 
by the mouth, the alimentary canal throughout is more or 
less inflamed. If cantharides be absorbed from a blistered 
surface, the effect is chiefly upon the urinary organs, 
causing hematuria and sexual excitement. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The mucous membrane of the bladder 
is variously altered in proportion to the intensity of the in- 
flammation. 

The membrane-lining usually presents an appearance of 
ordinary acute or chronic catarrhal inflammation, attended 
with more or less secretion of mucus or muco-pus. The 
urine often becomes rapidly ammoniacal. In very severe 
cases the mucous membrane may become ulcerated. 

Treatment.—In cystitis arising from absorption of irri- 
tant poison from a blister, the latter should be at once 
washed off. 

Internally, opium and hyoscyamus, or belladonna, are 


DISEASES OF THE URINARY SYSTEM. 271 


indicated. ‘The bowels should be regulated by laxative 
diet, and demulcent drinks should be allowed. 

If there be much pain, and marked constitutional disturb- 
ance, moderate blood-letting, followed by mild purgatives, 
is recommended by some. Hot fomentations applied to 
the abdomen are very beneficial also in alleviating the baie 
when severe. 

In chronic cases, hyoscyamus, buchu, and copaiba, with 
saline purgatives, are recommended by some. By others, 
mineral acids, with iron, are said to be very beneficial in the 
treatment. 

RETENTION OF URINE. | 

Etiology.—Retention of urine is caused by spasm of the 
neck of the bladder in colic. It is a common complication 
in paraplegia, in enlargement of the prostate in aged 
animals, in urinary or urethral calculi, and in cancer of the 
penis. It may also be caused by obstruction at the opening 
of the urethra, prolapse of the uterus or vagina, or by 
accumulation of feces in the rectum, or of dirt in the 
sheath (Williams). 

Inability to urinate may be due to other causes, as, for 
example, when an animal cannot rise in azoturia, laminitis, 
or paralysis. 

Paralysis of the bladder, due to over-distension of the 
walls by urine, may be the cause of retention. This some- 
times occurs when an animal is not able to micturate for a 
lengthened period during a long journey. 

Symptoms.—The animal, although making frequent 
attempts to micturate, is unable to pass water. 

Sometimes a few drops may be passed; at other times, 
none at all. 

In some cases there is a continual dribbling of the urine. 
In retention, if the bladder be examined by the hand 
passed through the rectum, it will be found distended. 


212 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Treatment.—The treatment of retention is essentially 
surgical. Careful catheterization is necessary in most cases, 
though in some instances pressure on the distended bladder 
by the hand passed through the rectum will suffice. 


INCONTINENCE OF URINE. 

By incontinence we mean an inability to retain the 
urine. 

In some instances retention is accompanied by incon- 
tinence of urine, which continually dribbles, owing to the 
great distension of the bladder. In other cases incontinence 
may be due to the presence of calculi, or to paralysis of the 
sphincter vesice. 

When due to over-distension, the incontinence must be 
treated by catheterization. 

When due to paralysis, nux vomica and vegetable tonics — 
with injection of cold water into the rectum are indicated. 


— 


CHAPTER IX. 


DISEASES OF THE REPRODUCTORY 
SYSTEM. 


HYSTERIA. 


DuRING the period of cestrum in the mare, symptoms 
resembling those of hysteria have been observed. 

In two cases described by Professor Williams, the sym- 
ptoms manifested were—clenching the jaws, grinding the 
teeth, difficulty in deglutition, and squinting, together with 
some degree of trismus, and tonic alternating with clonic 
spasms of the voluntary muscles. 

Kicking with the hind-legs in a most persistent and un- 
controllable manner, stamping with the hind-legs, and other 
indications of great restlessness and excitement, are very 
marked in some cases. The vulva, when examined, is found 
to be in a hyperesthetic condition, being opened and closed 


in rapid succession. The urine, which at first is excessive, 


becomes more scanty and high-coloured. 

In one of the cases recorded, the animal was prostrate 
and rigid, and appeared as though in a state of trance. 

In the case of a mare recently under our notice, the 
animal kicked violently and almost continuously, and there 
was great sexual excitement. The urine was pale, watery, 
and abundant. The mucous membrane of the vulva and 
vagina was highly congested. 

18 


974 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Treatment.—Depletion was practised in the former two 
cases, one of which recovered. The bleeding was followed 
by administration of cathartics. In the case before our 
notice, a moderate dose of aloes was first given, and was 
followed up by the administration of full doses of potassium 
and sodium bromide, with tincture of assafoetida three times 
daily. A laxative diet of bran-mashes and linseed-gruel 
was ordered. Themare recovered completely in a few days. 


PARTURIENT FEVER. 


Definition.—Parturient fever is a slight febrile condition 
occurring usually in from twenty-four hours to three days 
after parturition, and usually terminating in recovery. 

Etiology.—The fever affects animals of all ages, but is of 
more frequent occurrence after the first parturition. 

It is caused by cold, or by malhygienic conditions; and 
it may also be induced by dietetic errors. 

Symptoms.—The pulse is quick and full, and the respira- 
tions are accelerated. The bowels are constipated, and the 
temperature is raised somewhat. 

The visible mucous membranes are injected ; the secretion 
of milk is arrested, and the lacteal gland is harder and hotter 
than normally. 

Treatment.—A mild oleaginous purgative should be given, 
and should be followed up by the administration of liquor 
ammonie acetatis and nitric ether. 

The diet should be laxative, and restricted in amount. 


ACUTE METRITIS. 


Acute metritis, or acute inflammation of the uterus, occurs 
within a few hours to three or four days after parturition, © 
and is an extremely fatal disease. 

Etiology and Nature.—The causes of acute metritis are 
fatigue previous to parturition, injuries to the uterus and 


DISEASES OF THE REPRODUCTORY SYSTEM. 275 


vagina during delivery, and retained placental membranes. 
This disease may also be induced by exposure to cold or 
other debilitating influences. 

Acute metritis may be regarded as due to pyzmia, or 
septiceemic poisoning, depending generally on absorption of 
septic matter from the parturient canal. Secondary foci of 
inflammation appear in the brain, lungs, and other organs. 

When due to the retention of the placental membranes, 
the disease depends upon the decomposition of coagula and 
pieces of the placenta within the uterus, and the absorption 
of the products of their disintegration into the blood. 

Symptoms.—The animal is uneasy, and loses its appetite. 
The milk becomes very nearly, or quite suppressed. 

If any can be squeezed out, it is a bluish tint, and thin 
and watery, or it may be a reddish-brown colour. 

The vulva is small and contracted, and the vaginal 
mucous membrane sometimes of a deep red or purple hue, 
with petechial spots and purple streaks. 

There is violent straining, and the discharge of a dark- 
coloured, foetid, decomposing fluid. 

The pulse is feeble, thready, and accelerated ; the heart’s 
action disturbed ; the surface of the body cold. 

The animal shows signs of abdominal pain, and sometimes 
manifests symptoms of inflammation of the feet. 

As the disease progresses the animal gradually falls, the 
pulse becomes feebler and feebler, and the breathing hurried 
and thoracic, until at length complete unconsciousness sets 
in, the animal dying in from twelve hours to two days or 
more after the onset. 

Morbid Anatomy.—There is diffuse inflammation of the 
mucous membrane of the uterus, which soon extends to the 
uterine veins. | 

_ The inflammation extends to the peritoneum and intes- 
tines, and tends to spread over a large surface. 
18—2 


276 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The inflammatory exudation is dark coloured and abun- 
dant. 

That which is effused into the uterine cavity causes great 
irritation and straining, and is discharged through the 
vagina. 

Examined microscopically, the discharge is found to consist 
of blood globules, pus, and much granular matter inter- 
mixed with shreds of lymph. 

Treatment.—In the first place it is essential that the 
uterus and vagina be washed out by injections of Condy’s 
fluid, carbolic acid, or hypo-sulphite of sodium, very largely 
diluted with warm water. 

This is necessary in order to prevent the further absorp- 
tion of septic matter. 

The strength of the animal should be supported by the 
internal administration of alcoholic and other stimulants. 

If the temperature be very high, salicylate of sodium or 
quinine should be given in addition. 

The abdominal pain may be relieved by opium, and hot 
fomentations to the loins-and abdominal walls. 


INFLAMMATION OF THE ' OVARIES, 
OVARITIS, OOPHORITIS. 


Inflammation of the ovaries is very rarely met with in — 
the equine species, and consequently very little is known — 
of this disease. 

Acute ovaritis, according to Percivall, appears to give — 
pretty much rise to the same symptoms as denote peri-— 
tonitis and metritis. | ; 

Chronic ovaritis is not marked by any appreciable 
symptoms, but lays the foundation for tumours of con- 


DISEASES OF THE REPRODUCTORY SYSTEM. 277 


siderable size, which may exist without disturbance of 
function. 
Acute ovaritis may terminate in suppuration, or pass into 
the chronic stage, but generally ends in resolution. 
Sometimes the ovarian tumours may burst into the 
abdomen, and thus cause death. The late Mr. D. Gress- 
well noted three cases of ovaritis in the mare, and of these 
one was acute and the other two of the chronic form. 


CHAPTER X. 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 


GENERAL REMARKS ON THE STRUCTURE AND 
FUNCTIONS OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM, AND 
ON THE LOCALIZATION OF NERVOUS DISEASES. 


We do not purpose here to enter into the anatomy and _ 


histology of the nervous system, but to cursorily review 
some general points which are of especial importance in the 
study and in the localization of the diseases of the nervous 
system. 

The nervous system is made up of two ultimate factors, 
nerve-fibres and nerve-cells, and these are intimately asso- 
ciated together. 

The white matter of the brain and of the spinal cord is 
composed of nerve-fibres imbedded in a ground substance, 
or neuroglia, The grey matter of the brain and spinal cord 
is made up of nerve-fibres and of nerve-cells, or ‘ ganglion 
cells,’ as they are termed, similarly imbedded in the 
neuroglia. 

The neureglia itself consists of three different kinds of 
elements—(1) a homogeneous, transparent, semi-fluid matria, 
which in hardened sections appears more or less granular ; 
(2) a network of very delicate fibrils, ‘newroglia fibrils,’ which 
resemble elastic fibres ; (3) small branched nucleated cells 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 279 


interwoven into the network of the neuroglia fibrils. These 
are termed the newroglia cells (Klein). 

Now, the nerve-cells alone are capable of exhibiting inde- 

pendent nervous activity. 

They are the receivers of impressions and the generators 
of nerve-force, and therefore the true physiological nerve- 
centres are exclusively confined to the grey matter. The 
- nerve-fibres only serve to conduct impulses to and from the 
nerve-centres with which they are in connection. 

Cerebro-Spinal System.—On a vertical section of the 
hemispheres of the cerebrum, each convolution of the brain 

shows a white centre composed of medullated nerve-fibres 
and a grey cortex. 

The white matter of the convolution is arranged (1) as a 
central mass—the centrum ovale, from which the lamina of 
white matter for each convolution branches off, and (2) the 
commissure of white matter between the two hemispheres, 
.@., the corpus callosum, and the anterior commissure 
(Klein). 

The centrum ovale consists of (a) tracts of medullated 
nerve-fibres which connect the convolutions of the same 
hemisphere with one another, and (0) those passing 
between the convolutions on the one hand, and the 
thalamus opticus, the pons varolii, and the medulla on the 
other. 

From the whole of the cerebral surface, therefore, white 
fibres radiate to the large ganglia at the base. 

A special part of the corpora striata, termed the internal 
capsule, chiefly receives filaments from the anterior half of 
the brain, and these are concerned in the transmission of 
motor impulses. They pass through the ‘crusta’ of the 
erura cerebri, and thence along the motor tracts of the cord. 
The other ganglia at the base mainly receive fibres from 
the posterior part of the brain, and are chiefly concerned 


280 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


with sensory functions. These fibres pass through the 
tegmentum of the crus, and thence along the sensory tracts 
of the medulla and cord. 

The motor fibres, on reaching the medulla oblongata, 
decussate or cross over to the opposite side, pass down the 
anterior and lateral columns of the cord, and emerge by 
the anterior roots of the spinal nerves. The sensory 
fibres enter the cord by the posterior roots of the spinal 
nerves, cross immediately to the opposite side, thence pass 
upwards to the medulla, and onwards in the way above 
indicated. 

If, therefore, one half of the cord below the medulla be 
destroyed, loss of motion on the same side as the lesion and 
loss of sensation on the opposite side, would follow. 
Destruction of one half of the brain would cause loss of 
motion and sensation on the opposite side to that of the 
lesion. Pathological observation and recent experimental 
researches have shown that combined movements uniformly 
follow excitation of certain areas of the cortical surface, and 
that destructive lesion of the same parts is followed by 
paralysis of special groups of muscles. But for further 
particulars of these special centres we must refer the reader 
to Dr. Ferrier ‘On the Functions of the Brain,’ or to Dr. 
Foster’s ‘Physiology,’ in which a very clear account of the 
localization of cerebral functions is fully given. 

Seeing that the structure of the brain is far less complex | 
in the horse than in man, and that it forms, as the following 
table of Colin will show, a much lower proportion to the rest 
of the body, diseases of the nervous apparatus are of far 
less frequent occurrence in the equine species than in our- 
selves. 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 281 


Table indicating the weight of the encephalon and 
spinal cord as compared with that of the body (Colin). 


3 2 do |e | o348 aS 

‘ i. a a i aa ies: oF op 
Pees fae | |S |@58 | Bas | eseo 
yi ®] 2 o ag = om Saat ke ~ nA 
Pore ie alesse |. | |Z gas,. | 222m 
Animal. — be bwe | 2s are iad ad | tts 
o ° PY abe oH g S = geo i) Pa) re 3 
Brea. |e Seles te ghee | eeee 
> || S| aes | be | wa fees| Beet | Bos x 
© Oo | Oa | SH | OM | F282 fOSO] Geass | GHOST 

oe |e = = a. ie mG m4 
Stallion ..| 382°0 | 494] 46 616 304 76 920 1 : 620 j a wa 
Gelding ..| 380°0|559| 39 | 675 | 300 | 77 | 975 | ::1:563 | ::1:389 
Mare ..| 408°0 | 510 | 34 615 269 71 684 oe it Bot | seb ek 
Ass.. i.1 £to'O | 316 24 385 159 45 544 oc. 2.464 ey 4 
Hinny ~..| 186°0 | 466 31 564 198 67 762 12329) 22 224 


The anterior portion of the surface of the brain appears 
to be the supreme organ of the cerebro-motor processes or 
impulses, whereas the posterior portion of the cerebrum 
is similarly related to sensation. The part of the cerebrum 
anterior to the motor tract is chiefly concerned with the 
manifestation of intelligence. 

Besides the ganglia already mentioned at the base of 
the brain, which include the corpora striata, the optic 
thalami, the corpora geniculata, and the corpora quadri- 
gemina, there are collections of grey matter constituting a 
series of subordinate centres, closely succeeding each other, 
from the corpora quadrigemina above to the termination of 
the cord below, each either giving origin to motor or re- 
celving sensory fibres. Each centre is also capable of 
independent action in connection with reflex or automatic 
movements. The most important function of the cere- 
bellum is the co-ordination of voluntary movements. It 
has been held that it presides over the reproductory 
functions, but several facts oppose this view. M. Leuret 
showed, by taking the averages in ten stallions, twelve 


282 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


mares, and twenty-one geldings, that the weight of the 
cerebellum is greatest in the latter. 


Average. | Highest. | Lowest. 


Stallions.. 61 65 56 
ares...... 61 66 58 


Geldings..| 70 76 64 | 


Experimental lesions of the cerebellum always induce 
disorders of equilibrium, but never of impairment of sensa- 
tion or actual loss of voluntary muscular power, and Flourens 
inferred, therefore, that it controlled and harmonized the 
various muscular movements, while Foville attributed the 
manifestations to loss of muscular sense. 

Sympathetic System.—The chief function of the sympa- 
thetic system is the control of the involuntary muscle-fibre 
of the body. 

If the branches of the sympathetic supplying the muscle 
be stimulated, contraction is caused, while section of the 
nerve is followed by relaxation of the fibres. 

In this manner the calibre of the bloodvessels and the 
amount of the blood supplied to various organs and tissues 
is regulated. 

In addition to this indirect influence of the sympathetic 
upon the nutrition of the tissues, it is very probable that 
it also exercises a direct influence on the functional activity 
of the cells in secreting glands and elsewhere. 

The sympathetic system appears to have its supreme 
centre in the meduila, or rather in its floor; but it is 
intimately interwoven with the spinal system, for each 
spinal nerve receives branches from and transmits branches 
to the neighbouring sympathetic ganglion. 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 283 


CONVULSIONS AND SPASMS. 


The term convulsion, in its most extended sense, indicates 
any spasmodic contraction beyond the control of the animal. 

Convulsions may affect a single muscle, or a group of 
muscles, a limb, or the whole or one half of the body. 

They vary in intensity, from a mere ‘ tremor’ or ‘ trem- 
bling’ of a single muscle to the most violent contortions of 
the whole body. 

Convulsions may be considered under three groups : 

1, Tremors.—Tremors may accompany voluntary move- 
ments, or may occur independently. The tremors from cold 
or mercurial poisons are good examples of the latter. 

2. Choreic Movements. — The disease termed chorea 
furnishes the most typical example of this kind of convul- 
sion. Choreic movements are characterized mainly by their 
abruptness and irregularity, and by the fact that when 
engrafted on any voluntary movement, they interrupt its 
progress by a series of contractions which are not then 
necessarily limited to the limb or organ which is making 
the effort (Bristow). 

3. True Convulsions.—They may arise from direct irri- 
tation of the nerve-centres, and also from irritation in 
remote parts. 

Convulsions are clonic or tonic. 

Clonic convulsions are intermittent and irregular, and 
those occurring in epilepsy will serve as an example. Tonic 
spasm consists in more or less sudden muscular contraction, 
and is exemplified in tetanus and strychnia poisoning. 


MOTOR PARALYSIS—PARESIS. 


By paralysis is meant the impairment of that power which 
the various motor centres normally exercise over the move- 
ments of the muscles. 


' 


284 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The term ‘ paresis’ is often used of the slighter forms of 
this condition. 

Paralysis of the voluntary movements, which we now 
propose to consider, may be complete or incomplete. 

Motor paralysis has special designations, in accordance 
with the parts invaded : 

1. General Paralysis.—Is very rare in the horse, occur- 
ring only as a temporary condition in certain diseases of 
the cerebral structure, in cerebral congestion, in effusion 
into the basal ganglia, and in injuries and diseases of the 
anterior part of the cord and medulla oblongata. 

2. Hemiplegia.—Hemiplegia strictly implies a paralysis 
of all the muscles of one half of the body; but in this 
perfect form it is never met with in man or animals, 

Hemiplegia is very rarely observed in horses. It is usually 
the result of hemorrhage or tumours affecting one half of 
the brain. | 

As a result of such changes, the angle of the mouth may 
become relaxed and the ,facial expression on the same side 
as the pathological lesion may be changed. The tongue 
may be protruded, and there is difficulty in drinking and 
in mastication. Deglutition is not impaired. 

The animal may not lose the power of standing, but the 
power of progression is much affected. 

The paralysis of the body is on the opposite side to that 


on which the cerebral lesion occurs. This is owing to the 


decussation of the motor fibres in the medulla oblongata. 

The horse may regain power in a few days, but recovery 
is rare. 

Those cases which end in recovery probably depend upon 
temporary inflammatory action, or other causes. 

3. Paraplegia.—Paraplegia commonly depends on disease 
of the spinal cord, and denotes a defect or loss of power in 
all parts below the level of the lesion. 


te of Ske 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 285 


This affection is the commonest form of paralysis in the 


’ horse. 


Causes.—The causes of paraplegia are: 

1. Central Nervous Lesions. — These are due to injury, 
as fracture, or to diseases of the vertebrae, involving the 
spinal cord, or to disease of the cord itself. 

2. Reflex, or Functional Causes. — Functional paraplegia 
depends upon alterations in the quality of the blood, as in 
lead poisoning, azoturia, and after feeding upon rye-grass ; 
or it may depend upon intestinal or other disturbances 
of the system. 

Paraplegia resulting from the ingestion of rye-grass (en- 
zootic paraplegia) will be considered fully below. 

4, Local Paralysis.—Local paralysis is very rare in the 
horse, and is usually due to injury of a nerve from press- 
ure by badly fitting harness or by some abnormal growth. 
It may also be due to disease of the nerve at any part of its 
course, from its connection with nerve-centre to the organ 
supplied ; but paralysis resulting from this cause is very 
uncommonly met with in the horse. The most common 
form of local paralysis in the horse is that of the branches of 
the facial nerve, by which the muscles of the face are chiefly 
supplied with motor fibres. 

In paralysis of this nerve the lips are pendulous, and the 
animal is unable to grasp his food and has difficulty in 
mastication. 

HYPERASTHESIA, DYSASTHESIA, ANAESTHESIA. 
—By hyperesthesia is meant exalted sensibility ; by dys- 
eesthesia, persistent or painful sensibility. 

Practically, exalted sensibility is scarcely, if ever, distin- 
guishable from painful sensibility. The hyperesthetic eye 
cannot bear light, and the hyperesthetic skin is sensitive 
to the slightest pressure. 

The term ‘dysesthesia’ includes the sensations of itching, 


286 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


numbness, burning, cutting, constriction, and various other 
kinds of pain. The agony of enteritis, and several other 
diseases of the bowel and other organs, are especially acute 
in the horse. 

By anesthesia is meant impairment or loss of sensation. 
Hypereesthesia and aneesthesia are usually met with together, 
associated with motor paralysis. 


COMA AND INSENSIBILITY. 

Under this heading we do not purpose to discuss the affec- 
tion spoken of as ‘ sleepy staggers,’ sometimes termed ‘ coma,’ 
but to consider coma in its more general and extended sense. 

Coma is a progressive loss of function, which begins at 
the cerebrum, and is characterized at the outset by loss of 
consciousness, perception, and voluntary movement. 

Automatic and reflex movements continue at first ; but 
when the large ganglia at the base of the brain become 
involved, the capacity for automatic movement becomes 
more and more limited. | 

In fatal cases, the loss of function progresses, and gra- 
dually extends to the medulla, which is the seat of the 
respiratory, circulatory, and other centres. 

Death then soon ensues. 

The causes of coma are intense ee or anemia of 
the brain, altered conditions of the blood, and ‘injury or 
compression of the brain. 


STAGGERS. 

To several affections of the horse the term ‘staggers’ has 
been applied at various times by different authors. 

Indeed, there are at least as many as five distinct affec- 
tions which have received this name, and there are many 
more of which ‘staggers’ is a feature. 

Staggers may be due to primary disease of the nerve-centres, 
or to influences affecting them from disease of other organs. 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 287 


_ Varieties :— 

1. Mad Staggers.—The condition termed ‘mad staggers’ 
may depend upon various causes. In the first place frenzy, 
or violent uncontrollable fury, may be caused by inflamma- 
tion of the membranes of the brain, or the brain itself, or 
of both together. The frenzy-stage, or stage of irritation, 
occurring in meningeal inflammation, though undoubtedly 
also present in some cases of pure cerebritis (vide next 
article), is not such a constant feature as in the former 
disease. 

After the frenzy-stage, as the disease progresses, stupor, 
coma, and paralysis may supervene. 

Mad staggers, or frenzy, may also be due to uremic 
poisoning, to rabies, or to melanotic deposits in the brain. 

Again, staggers resulting from engorgement of the 
stomach may be so severe as to admit of being termed 
‘mad staggers.’ Staggers dependent upon functional dis- 
turbance is not followed by coma and paralysis, as it is 
when dependent upon encephalitis, nor is it accompanied 
by febrile manifestations, as in the latter case. 

2. Stomach Staggers.—This affection is otherwise known 
as acute indigestion or impaction of the stomach, and has 
already been described. Stomach staggers is sometimes 
termed ‘sleepy staggers,’ or ‘coma.’ Sleepy staggers, or 
coma, manifested by staggering gait; slow pulse and deep 
respirations may be, however, and frequently is, dependent 
on actual cerebral mischief. 

3. Grass Staggers.—This affection is due to eating rye- 
grass, and will be described under ‘Reflex or Enzootic 
Paraplegia.’ 

4, Epilepsy.—Epileptic attacks have been confounded 
with staggers depending upon secondary cerebral disturb- 
ance due to reflex irritation. 

5. Megrims and Vertigo. —This affection, which is usually 


288 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


due to irregularity or disturbance of the cerebral circula- 
tion, has been described as staggers. 


SECTION I, 
DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 


ACUTE INFLAMMATION OF THE BRAIN AND ITS 
MEMBRANES. 


Synonyms.—Encephalitis, cerebritis, phrenitis, menin-— 


gitis. | 

Acute inflammation of the cerebrum, or hemispheres of 
the brain, termed cerebritis, encephalitis, or phrenitis, is 
usually associated in the horse with meningitis, or inflam- 
mation of the meninges or coverings of the brain ; and we 
therefore describe these two affections together. 

Etiology.—Inflammation of the brain and of its coverings 
is usually due to direct injury, as blows on the head, or to 
disease of the bones of the cranium. 

This inflammation sometimes supervenes in some of the 
specific fevers, and may also be due to exhaustion or ex- 
posure to the heat of the sun. 

Of epizootic cerebro-meningitis, or cerebro-spinal fever, 
we have already treated. 

Symptoms.—Practically, it is almost impossible to dis- 
tinguish between inflammation of the brain itself and in- 
flammation of its membranous coverings, and, indeed, as we 
have already intimated, these two affections are usually 
associated together. 

When the membranes of the brain are primarily affected, 
the symptoms are characterized by the suddenness of their 
onset. They consist at first in great excitement, with con- 
vulsions or spasms, and are followed by a stage of depres- 
sion. 

Encephalitis is not characterized by such a sudden onset, 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 289 


and is said to be marked by no frenzy or excitement, but 
from the first exhibits lowered or depressed functional 
activity. 7 

But in some instances of encephalitis, at any rate, the 
stage of depression is preceded by one of irritation, as in 
meningitis. We ourselves have observed two instances, 
corroborated by the post-mortem examination, in which 
localized encephalitis was ushered in by the manifestation 
of violent and uncontrollable frenzy. 

Nevertheless, great excitement and convulsions are 
especially characteristic of meningeal inflammation as dis- 
tinguished from pure encephalitis. 

The symptoms of meningo-encephalitis vary much in 
accordance with the extent of the tissue inflamed, and its 
Seat. 

The temperature in this affection is high, and the febrile 
manifestations are strongly marked. The appetite is 
capricious, and the bowels are confined. 

The animal is very intolerant of its head being handled 
or pressed upon, and the skin and mouth are hotter than 
natural. 

The eyes are staring and the pupils are contracted, 
though in the later stages of the disease they become 
widely dilated. The pulse is accelerated; the artery is 
full, firm, and hard, and the respirations are quickened 
- and irregular. 

The urine is diminished in amount, and is of darker 
colour than in health. 

The horse moves to and fro restlessly, and his body 
is sometimes bedewed with perspiration. 

Occasionally muscular twitchings and general or local 
hyperesthesia are manifested. 

The stage of excitement is of variable duration, and the 
symptoms manifested in it differ widely in intensity. 

19 


290 


MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


It is followed by the stage of depression, which is charac- 
terized by stupor and coma, caused by more serious involve- 


ment of the true nerve-centres. 


The differences between cerebral and meningeal diseases 
in the human subject are arranged as follows by Aitken :-— 


CEREBRAL DISEASE. 


1. From the outset, or from a 
very early stage of development, 
there is loss of some one or more 
of the proper nervous functions, 
such as paralysis, anesthesia, loss 
of memory. 

2. Cerebral disease is not com- 
monly attended by high-marked 
exaggeration of function, such as 
furious delirium, convulsions, in- 
tense hypereesthesia or tenderness. 


3. Little vascular excitement 
attends cerebral disease, nor is 
there frequently any highly - 
marked general disturbance, 

4, Paralysis and anesthesia, 
losses of volition, ideation, per- 
ception, and the like, characterize 
cerebral disease. 


MENINGEAL DISEASE. 


1. It is not till some time after 
the detection of signs of disease 
that diminution or loss of nervous 
function takes place. 


2. The subsequent diminution 
or loss of nervous function, which 
succeeds the prolonged existence 
of ‘head symptoms,’ is generally 
preceded in cases of meningeal 
disease by extremely severe ex- 
citement or exaggeration of func- 
tions, such as pain, tenderness, 
furious delirium, or convulsions. 

3. In meningeal affections there 
is usually much local vascular ex- 
citement, with general distur- 
bance. 

4, Spasms or convulsions, pain 
and delirium, are the general 
features of meningeal disease. 


Morbid Anatomy.—When the membranes of the brain 
are involved in the inflammation, the pia mater is thickened, 
opaque, and much congested over a larger or smaller area. 
The dura mater may be adherent in parts to the cranial 
bones. 

Inflammation of the brain itself is usually limited to one 
or more patches, and, as in man, is more commonly met 
with as the result of injury or disease of the cranial bones. 
The inflamed brain-substance is sometimes much altered, 
but may be at first red and congested, afterwards becoming 
pulpy and disorganized, with congestion and cedema of the 
surrounding nerve-tissue. 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 291 


The inflammation may subside, or terminate in suppura- 
tion. 

The abscess when formed is generally single, but there 
may be several in pyzemia. 

In a case recently before our notice, which was ushered 
in by violent frenzy, followed shortly by great depression, 
coma, and death, a large abscess was found occupying a 
large area of the right cerebral hemisphere. 

Treatment —Bleeding is indicated in inflammation of 
the brain and its membranes when the fever is high and 
the excitement and restlessness very marked. 

In cases of inflammation of the structures occurring in 
the course of a specific fever, or in some primary constitu- 
tional disease, bleeding is generally harmful. 

In all cases, a cathartic should be given at once, as soon 
as the case is seen. 

Locally, ice, or cloths steeped in cold water or some 
evaporating lotion, should be applied to the head during 
the stage of excitement. The animal should be removed 
from all noises, and kept as strictly quiet as is possible. 

Internally, liquor ammoniz acetatis and potassium bicar- 
bonate may be given three times daily. 

In the stage of irritation, potassium bromide or chloral 
hydrate may be given in addition. 

These remedies may be given in the water, if the animal 


continues to drink. 


The diet should be light and nutritious. 

If paralysis and impaired sensation still continue after 
the abatement of the acute symptoms, a smart blister 
may be applied to the poll, and should be repeated if 
necessary. 


19—2 


i) 
Ne) 
bo 


MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


CHRONIC DISEASES OF THE BRAIN, 


CHRONIC MENINGITIS.—Chronicinflammatory changes 
are sometimes met with in horses in the membranes of the 
brain, but during life they are not usually diagnosed. 
They may give rise to general dulness, a staggering gait, 
slow pulse, and other symptoms, as well as sometimes to 
the more active manifestations of cerebral disturbance. 

Chronic meningeal inflammation is usually the sequel of 
acute attacks of inflammation, or it may follow recovery 
from various injuries to the brain. 

CEREBRAL SOFTENING.—Cerebral softening is usually 
the result of embolism of the cerebral arteries, but it may 
also follow inflammation of the brain substance. It some- 
times occurs as a result of plugging of the cerebral arteries 
in pink eye or pneumo-enteritis. 

The symptoms manifested during life, though not diag- 
nostic, are similar to those met with in tumours and chronic 
meningeal disease of the brain, and were spoken of by the 
older writers as ‘coma,’ or ‘sleepy staggers.’ 

If the softened patch of the brain substance be examined, 
it will be found variously altered. 

It will be white, yellow, or pinkish in colour, and of 
variable consistency. 

Softening, due to arterial plugging and atheroma, is 
usually met with in old animals. 

HYDROCEPHALUS. — Hydrocephalus (vdwp, water ; 
xepaan, the head), or effusion of fluid into the ventricles of 
the brain alone, or into or beneath the arachnoid in addi- 
tion, is of not uncommon occurrence in the horse. 

In rare instances it is said to be met with sometimes in 
old animals, but is more frequently met with as a congenital 
defect in foals. 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN, 293 


Its pathology is obscure, but when occurring in adults, it 
is probably, as in man, dependent upon pressure on the ven 


-galeni (D. Gresswell). 


When occurring as a congenital defect, it is probably due 
to some constitutional cachexia in one or both parents. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms of hydrocephalus may be 
arranged under two groups :-— 

1. Lhe Appearance of the Head.—The hydrocephalic head is 
recognised by the great enlargement of the volume of the 
cranium. 

The face appears very small by contrast, and the fon- 
tanelles and sutures are wider than in the normal condition. 

Dr. Fleming, in his excellent ‘Text-Book of Veterinary 
Obstetrics,’ gives the following description of this unsightly 
condition : 

‘In some cases the distension has been so slight that the 
frontal bones are not much raised, while in others the collec- 
tion of serum has been so great that these and other bones 
of the cranium are displaced, and the forehead, rising almost 
at right angles to the face, suddenly reaches an extraordinary 
height, giving the creature a startling appearance. The 
hydrocephalic tumour varies in figure as well as in volume. 
it is sometimes quite globular, and protrudes so high and so 
much over the face as to give the physiognomy a strangely 
human appearance ; in rare cases it is narrow, but excessively 
protuberant, involving only a part of the cranium ; at other 
times it is bilocular, and the divisions may be either alike or 
unequal in volume. 

‘Not unfrequently the diameter of such a tumour in the 
calf measures more than half a foot. The tumour is soft 
and depressible in parts, hard and resisting in others, owing 
to the bones of the cranium being altered and separated in 
places. 

‘These bones, and particularly the frontal, temporal and 


294 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


parietal, are, as a rule, considerably deformed and thrown 
out of their natural direction, and in places so expanded and 
rarefied as to be no thicker than tissue paper. When the 
internal distension has been very considerable, their borders 
do not meet as in their normal condition, but are often 
widely separated, leaving between them vast fontanelles, 
occupied only by a thin translucent membrane, the dura 
mater, which is in immediate contact with, and closely 
adheres to, the skin. 

‘In some instances, especially in the calf, the bones on 
their upper part do not join at all, and the roof of the 
cranium, or rather of the cranial tumour, is entirely absent. 
In other instances, and particularly in the foal, a kind of 
bony arch extends from the nasal to the occipital bones, 
in the direction of the sagittal suture, with only here 
and there, on each side, small osseous patches from the 
parietal or temporal bones, and adhering to the dura 
mater. 

‘The tumour is always entirely covered by intact, though 
sometimes very thin skin, to which the hair is ordinarily 
attached, and is, indeed, at times longer than usual, espe- 
cially at the sides. 

‘Owing to the great development of the forehead, the 
upper jaw appears to be shorter than usual ; and, indeed, it 
will be found that it is really so.’ 

2. General Symptoms.—In the early stages the animal is 
irritable, and manifests febrile symptoms. Afterwards the 
foal becomes weak and debilitated, and its sensibility 
becomes impaired. Paralysis, coma, and convulsions pre- 
cede death in fatal cases. 

When hydrocephalus comes on in adult life, the symptoms 
are occult ; but fortunately this disease is of rare occurrence, 
except as a congenital defect. | 

Prognosis.—Cases of recovery from congenital hydro- 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 295 


cephalus are very rare, even in the mildest forms of the 
disease. 

Morbid Anatomy.—The ventricles are found distended 
with a varying quantity of clear limpid or slightly yellow 
or greenish serum. The lining membrane of the sac is often 
rough and granular. The quantity of fluid varies very con- 


\ \! 


Rt 
a 
WY 
r\\\\\ 


e 


Fig. 4,—Head of Hydrocephalic Foal (from Fleming’s ‘ Veterinary 
Obstetrics.’ 


siderably, but is generally from two to four pints in the foal 
and calf. | 

The late Mr. D. Gresswell collected as much as five 
and a half pints in one instance, and over eleven in 
another. 

The largest amount recorded is two and a half gallons. 

The accumulation of the fluid within the ventricles flattens 
the cerebral convolutions, and may almost entirely obliterate 
them, and the hemispheres are more or less completely 
destroyed. 

The spinal cord, choroid plexuses, and cerebellum are not 
generally affected. 


296 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Treatment.—Even in the most favourable instances there 
is little profit to be derived from keeping hydrocephalic 
foals, as they are mostly very weakly, badly developed, and 
do not thrive well. 


TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE 
CEREBRAL STRUCTURES. 


TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE CRANIAL 
WALLS. 


EXOSTOSES.—Osseous tumours, or ivory osteomata, have 
sometimes been met with growing from the internal, and 
also from the external, plates of the cranial bones of horses. 
They generally grow from the internal surface of the tem- 
poral bones, and are rounded, nodulated, and sometimes 
pedunculated. 

They are hard and dense, being composed of compact 
ivory-like tissue, containing osseous corpuscles, but no 
Haversian canals or blood-vessels, 

In some cases they become detached from the cranial 
walls, and lie loose in the cranial cavity. 


TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH THE BRAIN AND 
ITS MENINGES. 


1. TUMOURS OF THE CHOROID PLEXUS.—Abnormal 
growths in connection with the choroid plexus of the lateral 
ventricles are the most frequently encountered of all cerebral 
tumours in the horse. 

They sometimes involve one of the plexuses, sometimes 
both, and are frequently symmetrical on both sides of the 
brain, not only in position, but in size also. 

These tumours develop very slowly, and do not occasion 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 297 


severe symptoms until they have attained a size perhaps as 
large as a pigeon’s egg. They are sometimes met with as 
large as a hen’s egg. They occur in horses of various ages, 
but are more common in old animals. The tumours are 
composed of cholesterine* (C,,H,,O), of calcareous particles 
termed ‘brain sand,’ anda littleserum. They are enveloped 
in the folds of the choroid plexus, encapsuled by a more or 
less dense membrane, and held together in many instances 
by fibrous tissue in variable amount. 

These tumours are developed in connection with hyper- 
trophied villi of the choroid plexus, which are frequently 
enlarged and congested in old horses. Sometimes they are 
made up almost entirely of cholesterine arranged in spherical 
masses, and are probably due to caseous and calcareous 
degeneration of inflammatory exudation thrown out by the 
processes of the plexus.! 

The calcareous particles are contained in concentric bodies 
called. corpora amylacea, and are termed ‘ brain sand.’ 

These concentric bodies, held together by fibrous tissue, 
are sometimes met with in the brain and its membranes 
in man, and are termed ‘ psammomata’ (from ~auua, sand). 
In some instances these calcareous bodies form a large part 
of the tumours in horses, while in others cholesterine is 
the chief constituent. | 
_ The lateral ventricles may be almost, or quite, filled by 
the tumours, and not uncommonly congestion and other signs 


* Cholesterine, 2 normal constituent of the bile and various tissues, 
especially the nervous, is a neutral substance which readily crystallizes 
from an ethereal solution in rhombic plates, which, when seen in mass, 
have a mother-of-pearl lustre. It fuses at 145°, is insoluble in water 
but soluble in alcohol, ether, and chloroform. When evaporated with 
nitric acid, the residue on addition of ammonia acquires a dull red 
colour. If sulphuric acid be added to an equal amount of solution of 
cholesterine in ether, the solution becomes red, then purple, while the 
subjacent layers acquire a distinct green fluorescence. Cholesterine is 
the chief constituent of gall-stones, and occurs in several other patho- 
logical products, 


298 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


of recent inflammation of the neighbouring i may be 
observed after death. 

2. CANCER.—Cancerous growths are said to ae been 
met with in rare instances in connection with the meninges 
and substance of the brain. When occurring here, these 
growths are nearly always due to secondary infection from 
primary cancerous disease of other organs of the body. 

3. MELANOSIS.— Melanotic growths are sometimes 
observed in connection with the meninges and brain sub- 
stance of the horse. Mr. Williams mentions a case in which 
black melanotic nodules were observed in the brain and 
membranes of an aged grey stallion which had suffered for 
some time from stringhalt. These nodules were also found 
along the spinal cord, and were especially numerous in the 
lumbar region. 

4, GLIOMA.—Glioma is a variety of round-celled sarcoma, 
growing from the neuroglia of nerve-tissue. It consists of 
small round cells, and has been met with by Mr. Robertson 
on several occasions in connection with the cerebellum as an 
ill-defined tumour. 

We have met with some patches of firm dense greyish 
tissue In connection with the cerebellum, but on examina- 
tion they proved to be merely patches of sclerosis, no cells 
of a sarcomatous nature being found. 

5. FIBROMA.—Fibromata have been sometimes observed 
in connection with the meninges of the brain. 

6. PARASITIC GROWTHS are sometimes met with in 
connection with cerebral structures (vide Chapter on 
‘Entozoa).’ 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 299 


SYMPTOMS OF TUMOURS IN CONNECTION 
WITH THE BRAIN AND ITS MENINGES. 


Tumours of the choroid plexus scarcely ever affect the 
health of the animal or give any signs of their presence 
until they have reached a size perhaps as large as a walnut 
or hen’s egg. 

When they have attained such a size, they may give rise 
at, varying intervals to severe convulsive fits, staggering gait, 
and inability to perform work. In other instances no 
symptoms are manifest before a fatal stroke resembling 
apoplexy from rupture of a cerebral artery suddenly occurs. 
Sometimes the animal becomes violently excited, raises its 
head, and dashes violently forward. In these instances the 
head is hot, the pulse is full and bounding, and the vision 
is imperfect. After a while the paroxysm may be relieved, 
and the animal rises and regains consciousness. 

When symptoms are manifested prior to the sudden 
attacks, there may, in some instances, be unconsciousness, 
with elevation of the head and fore-part of the body, while 
in others there is a tendency to keep the head depressed 
(Williams). 

These tumours generally grow for a long time without 
producing any untoward symptoms, which mostly come on 
quite suddenly when the tumour reaches the size of a large 
ege. 

All intra-cranial tumours may give rise to staggering 
gait, a tendency to fall asleep and become drowsy while 
eating, slow pulse and deep respiration—an aggregation of 
symptoms spoken of by the old writers as ‘ sleepy staggers,’ 
or ‘ coma.’ 

Violent exertion is always liable to be attended with 
symptoms of cerebral disturbance indicated by the above 
manifestations, or by more active signs, as uncontrollable 


300 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


excitement and frenzy. In some instances abnormal growths 
in the brain are also injurious in virtue of their being part 
of a general disease of the system, as, for example, in the 
case of melanosis or other malignant growths. 


TREATMENT OF TUMOURS IN CONNECTION WITH 
THE BRAIN AND ITS MENINGES. 


Drugs are of no avail in the treatment of these tumours, 
but careful management of the work and dietetic arrange- 
ments is In many instances attended with marked benefit. 


DISEASES DEPEN DING UPON ALTERATIONS 
IN THE CEREBRAL CIRCULATION. 


MEGRIMS, OR CEREBRAL HYPERAMIA. 


We have already alluded to ‘ megrims,’ or cerebral con- 
gestion, as being spoken of with other cerebral disturbances 
of an organic or functional character, as ‘staggers’ or 
‘ vertigo.’ 

Definition. By megrims we understand that form of 
cerebral disturbance usually sudden in onset, of short 
duration, liable to recurrence, and characterized by 
excitement, perversion or impairment of special sensation, 
but also to some extent of common sensation and voluntary 
motion (Robertson). 

This form of cerebral disturbance is liable to be confounded 
with organic disease of the brain. 

Etiology.—Cerebral congestions may be mechanical (or 
passive) or active. 

Passive congestion is generally due to interference with 
the escape of the blood from the cranial vessels. 

Active congestion may be due to increased cardiac activity 
or to disturbance of the vaso-motor influence, or may be 


) ii 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 301 


associated with general plethora, or with any interference 
with the general arterial or capillary circulation. 

Megrims occurring in harness or draught-horses, except 
when due to organic cerebral disease, is almost always due 
to mechanical impediment to the flow of the blood from the 
brain, occasioned by the pressure of too tightly or badly 
fitting harness. 

By some megrims is believed to be due to inflammatory 
action, but there does not appear to be any grounds for this 
supposition. 

It is said also that megrims may be produced by ex- 
posure to the rays of the sun, or by driving fast after a 
heavy meal. 

These causes certainly may increase the tendency to this 
affection, but it is very improbable that they alone can 
cause it. As already pointed out, however, indigestion is liable 
to be caused by fast driving after heavy meals, and may 
induce vertiginous symptoms, which might easily be con- 
fused with megrims depending upon actual congestion. 

Symptoms.—There are generally no premonitory sym- 
ptoms, the attack being sudden in its onset. 

The animal slackens its speed, or stops suddenly, and 
moves its head from side to side or up and down. Some- 
times its head is turned to one side. 

The vessels of the face and throat are engorged, the eyes 
stare, the nostrils are dilated, and the breathing is rapid. 
The skin may be bedewed with perspiration, and the 
cervical and facial muscles twitch convulsively. 

If the collar causing the obstruction be removed, the 
symptoms abate, and the animal soon recovers. | 

When the symptoms are very severe, there is great 
excitement, the convulsions become still more severe, and 
the animal falls prostrate to the ground. 

Morbid Anatomy. — The brain is found congested, 


302 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


and the venous sinuses and vessels are engorged. The 
capillaries of the pia mater are full of blood, and the brain- 
substance, when cut into, presents a large number of red 
spots, and is redder than natural. 

Treatment.—First remove the collar to permit of the 
return of the blood to the heart, and then apply cold 
water to the head. 

_ When the affection depends upon gastric disturbance, 
this must be treated as already directed (vide ‘ Diseases of 
the Stomach ’). 

In those instances where the neck is peculiarly shaped, 
it may be necessary to use a breast-strap instead of a 
collar. 

CEREBRAL ANAXMIA.—Anemia of the brain of the 
horse may depend upon general anemia, feeble action of the 
heart, or upon local interference with the blood-supply from 
intra-cranial obstruction. The brain and its membranes 
become paler than natural, and occlusion of some of the 
small vessels may be observed. When dependent on 
general anzemia, the symptoms are early exhaustion, general 
pallor of the visible mucous membranes, and dilated 
pupils. 

In partial aneemia the symptoms vary in accordance with 
the nature of the cause. 

The Treatment of anzemia of the brain, when due to 
general anemia, consists in attention to the hygienic condi- 
tions, good nutritious diet, and the administration of iron 
and vegetable tonics. 


CEREBRAL EMBOLISM AND THROMBOSIS. 


Cerebral embolism denotes a plugging of one of the 
arteries of the brain by a small vegetation or fragment of 
fibrin detached from the heart or aorta, and swept off into 


DISEASES OF THE BRAIN. 303 


the current of the circulation. The embolism may also be 
due to detachment of fragments of pulmonary thrombi. 

Cerebral thrombosis is almost always associated with an 
unhealthy condition of the inner coat of the vessels, or to a 
diseased condition of the blood itself. 

Embolism and thrombosis cut off the supply of blood 
from the part of the brain to which the diseased vessel is 
distributed, and cerebral softening ensues. 


CEREBRAL HA MORRHAGE, OR APOPLEXY. 


Cerebral hemorrhage is due to rupture of a vessel in 
the brain. Rupture of cerebral arteries is generally due to 
disease of the walls or to changes in the surrounding parts 
by which the vessels are deprived of support, or finally to 
injury. Cerebral hemorrhage is very rarely met with in the 
horse. 

Symptoms.—In some instances there may be premonitory 
symptoms, but generally the horse suddenly loses conscious- 
ness and falls prostrate to the ground. 

The extravasation, if occurring on one side of the brain, 
gives rise to partial or complete hemiplegia, or a certain set 
of muscles, or one limb only (monoplegia) may be para- 
lysed, in accordance with the extent of destruction of the 
cerebral substance. The symptoms vary in accordance with 
the part of the brain affected, and in rare instances, owing 
to increasing hemorrhage, may take some days ae they 
are fully developed. 

The breathing is stertorous and the pupils are usually 
dilated and insensitive to light, and the animal is insensible 
to external surroundings. 

The pulse is rapid and thready ; the limbs are flaccid, 
and the body is bedewed with a cold sweat. 

When the lesion is very extensive, the coma is profound 
and the sphincters relaxed. 


304 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Prognosis—When the hemorrhage is extensive, it 
generally proves fatal. In less severe cases recovery may 
take place, but more or less impairment of voluntary 
motion may remain. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Cerebral hemorrhage in the horse 
occurs in the substance of the brain, but it may also occur 
in the meninges, especially when due to injury. When the 
hemorrhage is recent, a red clot of variable size is found. 
This afterwards becomes encysted, and undergoes changes 
in colour and consistence, and hematoidin crystals and 
granular pigment are often found in it. 

In other instances inflammatory changes, resulting in the 
softening of the cerebral structures, or abscess may be formed. 

In old horses, the cerebral arteries will probably be found 
to be in an atheromatous condition. 

Treatment.—In those instances of cerebral hemorrhage 
where the coma is attended by full strong cardiac action 
in the young and previously healthy animal, bleeding is 
recommended. 

In other cases, all that can be done is to apply cold to 
the head, which should be elevated a little to allow a good 
supply of fresh air, and to bandage the legs. If collapse 
should threaten, owing to intensity of the shock, stimulants 
may be administered through enemata. In all cases the 
bowels should be freely acted upon. 


SECTION II, 


DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD. 


INFLAMMATION OF THE SPINAL CORD AND 
ITS MEMBRANES. — Inflammation of the spinal cord 
(myelitis), and of its coverings (spinal meningitis), may be 
described together, as in many instances both the cord and 


DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD. 305 


its membranes are simultaneously involved, and where the 
affection is mainly confined to one, it is often difficult to 
diagnose which of these structures is the chief seat of in- 
flammation. 

Etiology.—Spinal inflammation may be acute or chronic. 
Acute spinal inflammation may be due to injury, such as 
fracture or displacement of the vertebral segments resulting 
in compression of the cord. 

When arising idiopathically, it is often very difficult to 
trace the cause, but hereditary predisposition is certainly in 
many instances traceable. 

Exposure to cold and damp, especially after a heavy 
_ day’s work, are potent causes of inflammation of the spinal 
cord, and of its membranes. 

Symptoms.—Premonitory symptoms are more likely to 
be manifested when the membranes are the special seat of 
inflammation, whereas they are more likely to be absent 
when the inflammation is especially concentrated in the cord 
itself. 

Before paralysis comes on, in cases of inflammation of 
membranes especially, spasmodic contractions of the large 
muscles connected with the trunk and limbs, chiefly the 
hind ones, are observed. 

Febrile symptoms are manifested, and perspiration be- 
dews the body. The legs are lifted up and placed upon the 
ground in quick succession. The animal suffers great pain, 
and is very restless and excitable, and is disturbed by the 
slightest movements of the attendants. 

Now and again he may have intervals of calm and quiet, 
_and cessation from spasms. 

But after the lapse of eight to twelve hours or so, from 
the pain caused by progress of the inflammatory action, 
and from the exhaustion, the animal falls prostrate to the 
ground. 

20 


306 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The spasms often continue as he lies, and in very severe 
cases gradually increase in frequency and intensity. 
- Sensation is much impaired in the limbs; the pulse is 
quick, and the artery fuli and firm; the respirations are 
accelerated, and the temperature is elevated. 

The appetite is impaired, or lost altogether ; the urine is 
more scant, and the bowels are usually confined. 

In those instances where the inflammation is more pro- 
bably seated in the cord itself specially, the mode of onset 
differs from the above. 


No symptoms of spinal inflammation are observed in. 


these cases until sudden interference with the power of 
locomotion attracts the notice of the attendants. The loss 
of motor power becomes in a very short time so complete 
that the animal is prostrate, and is unable to rise. 

The muscular spasms, so prominent a feature in cases 
where the meninges are especially involved, are not so 
marked or so frequent in these cases. 

Sensation is rarely, if ever, entirely destroyed, pain 
being felt when a limb is pricked. Pain, when severe, is 
associated, as indeed is severe pain of other organs, with 
acceleration of the pulse and respirations. 

Symptoms of Chronic Spinal Inflammation. — The 
animal has tonic and clonic contraction of certain muscles, 
or sets of muscles. 

The spasms often gradually increase in frequency and, 
indeed, in intensity, but are rarely of such a severe descrip- 
tion as to prevent the animal from working. 

They may afterwards subside, or pain and increased loss 
of power over certain sets of muscles may ensue, as well as 
rigidity or spastic contraction in different groups of 
muscles. The animal does not show any tendency to lie 
down, and, when down, has great difficulty in rising. 

These symptoms slowly and gradually progress, and the 


- ii 
~~. 2, _ 


o Se —-s-.:S rcerrrtr”t~< 


DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD. 307 


loss of muscular power is often followed by complete 
paralysis of the posterior extremities. 

In those instances of chronic inflammation of the spinal 
cord specially, as distinguished from that of the meninges, 
loss of motor power is mostly followed by more or less 
complete paraplegia. 

Morbid Anatomy.—After death from acute spinal in- 
flammation, the cord and its membranes are more or less 
congested, sometimes, indeed, very highly. The sub-arach- 
noid space is filled with serous exudation, and the cord, 


when cut into, is much redder than normal. The post- 


mortem changes, however, are sometimes very slight in 
comparison with the severity of the symptoms manifested 
during life, and they vary greatly in extent and in 
character. 

In some instances the cord becomes soft and pulpy, the 
nerve-fibrils and cells undergo marked alterations, which 
are more especially, however, concentrated in the grey 
matter. 

In chronic inflammation, the cord is red, injected, and 
softened ; the meninges are thickened, and the arachnoid 1s 
covered with inflammatory exudation, by which the two 
surfaces may become united, or the cavity is filled with 
reddish serum. 

Diagnosis.—The history will in many cases help to clear 
up any doubts as to the diagnosis of the case. Acute 
spinal inflammation may be confused with azoturia. The 


dark colour of the urine in the latter affection, however, is 


not a feature of spinal inflammation, and the spasms are 
mostly limited to the gluteal region. In acute spinal in- 
flammation a greater number and variety of muscles are 
usually affected, and the spasmodic contractions are of a 
more clonic nature. 
Broken back is generally directly traceable to an injury, 
20— 2 


308 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


whereas spinal inflammation is mostly of idiopathic 
origin. 

Prognosis.—Acute spinal inflammation usually terminates 
fatally. 

Chronic inflammation does not generally end fatally, but 
so much loss of power remains in many instances that 
treatment is often abandoned. 

Treatment.—A purgative, such as a full dose of aloes, 
should be administered at the outset, and the bowels should 
be kept carefully open during the progress of the disease 
by enemas, or the administration of saline purgatives. 

Bleeding may be in many instances adopted, but it is 
contra-indicated when paralysis has set in. 

Cloths wrung from hot water medicated by the addition 
of belladonna may be applied over the region of the spine 
to ease the pain and subdue the inflammatory action. 

Internally, belladonna, in the form of extract or tincture, 
may be given three times daily. 

After the acute stage is passed, ergot of rye, in the form 
of the ethereal tincture, and potassium iodide, may, be 


tried, and where deficiency of nerve-power is left, stimulants 


may also be administered. 

Externally, if impairment of nerve power remains, some 
authors recommend the application of the actual cautery 
over a considerable length of the spine, on both sides. 

If blisters be used, cantharides should not be the active 
ingredient. 

Internally, after the acute stages are over, strychnine and 
quinine may be administered three times a day. 

In those cases where micturition is not easily performed, 
the catheter should be passed twice or three times daily, in 
order to draw off the urine. | 

The food should be good and nutritious, and the general 
hygienic conditions should be attended to. 


ue tame 


DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD. 309 


SPINAL HA MORRHAGE. 


In rare instances, hemorrhages in connection with the 
spinal cord have been met with from a diseased condition 
of the vessels. Generally, however, hemorrhage is a 
surgical lesion, the result of direct violence. 

The cord itself may be the seat of the hemorrhage, or 


this may occur in the sac between the ensheathing meninges, . 


or finally it may occur outside of the membrane. 
If the extravasation into the substance of the cord be 


large, paraplegia may suddenly come on in consequence, 


but when it is of less extent, exaltation of functional 
activity may or may not be followed by impairment or loss 
of motor power. 


TUMOURS AND ADVENTITIOUS GROWTHS IN 
CONNECTION WITH THE CORD. 


Exostoses, melanotic growths and cancerous growths, are 
sometimes met with in connection with the cord. 

We have already alluded to a case of melanotic deposits 
in the cord. . 

An account of avery interesting case of cancer of the spine 
is thus recorded by Mr. Hunting : 


On the 10th September, 1855, I was requested to see a chestnut mare. 
the property of Mr. G. 8. R., of S. H. She had been unwell for ten 
or twelve days with cough and sore throat ; her neck was likewise very 
stiff, but her appetite had remained good up to yesterday, when she 
became tympanitic, and suffered intense pain. When I saw my 
patient, I found that the pulse numbered 68, and was weak. The sub- 
maxillary artery appeared full and soft, and the action of the heart 
feeble. The breathing 59 in the minute, and rather laboured. The 
conjunctival membranes were very much injected, and of a yellowish 
colour. The mouth was hot and dry. The nostrils were greatly dilated. 
The ears were cold, legs warm. The feces were of a healthy 
character. The respiratory murmur throughout the whole length of the 
trachea was much louder than in health, and the left lung gave evidence 
of partial congestion. The cough was thick and heavy, and of a peculiar 
sound, but not frequent. The larynx and trachea were very painful 
on pressure. 


310 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


A watery fluid flowed from the eyes, but there was no discharge from ; 


the nostrils. The neck was very stiff, so much so that the animal 
could neither eat nor drink from off the ground, nor move the head in 
a lateral direction. The parotid glands were much larger and 
harder than usual. The appetite, however, was but little impaired. 

From these symptoms I considered it to be a case of ordinary influ- 
enza, or distemper, which disease was exceedingly prevalent in the neigh- 
bourhood at the time. Acting upon this impression, I treated it as 
such until the 24th, when my patient was so much better, that profes- 
sional attendance was no longer necessary. The head could now be 
moved with greater freedom in a lateral direction, and the mare was 
enabled to eat and drink from the ground. The breathing had become 
natural, both in character and frequency. The pulse 38, and healthy 
in tone, the appetite good, the animal lively, and capable of taking 
half-an-hour’s exercise daily. 

On the 6th of October I received a message to say that the mare was 
not so well. On arriving at the place late in the day, I found her 
apparently suffering but little pain, the intense agony which the owner 
had observed in the morning having passed off. The other symptoms 
they described as also existing were an enormously distended abdomen, 
frequent groaning, rigid limbs, an occasional lying down but quickly 
rising again, very heavy breathing, and an anxious expression of the 
eyes. 

The pulse was 44 in number, and rather weak at the jaw; the 
sounds of the heart were so feeble that they were scarcely audible on the 
left side ; the breathing was 66 in the minute, but not laboured ; 
the motion of the abdominal muscles was indeed so slight, that I was 
unable to take the number of respirations at the flank ; the neck was 
still a little stiff ; the nostrils dilated, and much anxiety of the counte- 
nance present. ‘The mucous membranes were healthy in colour ; the 
mouth cool and moist ; the surface of the body of a natural tempera- 
ture ; the bowels regular, and the urine of a light colour. 

On the application of pressure to any part of the spinal region, from 
about the tenth dorsal vertebra to the sacrum, the whole of the volun- 
tary muscles behind became as rigid and as hard asin the worst cases of 
tetanus during the periods of excitement. Very little difference could 
be detected in the violence of muscular contractions, whether the 
pressure was employed directly over the spine, or within twelve inches 
on either side of it. This tetanic rigidity sometimes occurred when 
pressure was not applied, and also when the animal was made to 
back, but then ina much less degree, and lasting for a few minutes only. 

On an examination per rectum, I detected a large tumour on the 
left side of the spine, having a density, as imparted to the feel, equal 
to the structure of the liver. It appeared to be about eight or nine 
inches in diameter, three inches thick in its centre portion, and an 
inch at its circumference. It was closely connected to the posterior 
part of the kidney, over-lapping the posterior aorta, and extending to 
the right side of the spine. On pressing the enlargement, evident 
pain was obtained, but the tetanic spasm did not follow, nor was 
there the slightest indication of pain when pressure was applied to 
the inferior portion of the lumbar vertebre. The pulsation of the 


DISEASES OF THE SPINAL CORD. 311 


posterior aorta between the tumour and the bifurcation of the vessel 
into the iliac arteries was scarcely to be felt, which I attributed to 
_ pressure of the enlarged mass upon the aorta. 

I looked upon the case as one of very doubtful recovery, thinking 
that I had most likely to deal with the formation of an internal 
abscess as a sequela of influenza, which is not a very uncommon 
occurrence ; but my patient’s appetite was good, the heart’s action not 
much disturbed, and the feces and urine healthy. I considered 
treatment justifiable. Counter - irritants were therefore applied 
to the loins, and pot. iodidum given internally with vegetable tonics. 
Under this treatment the tumour gradually became less in size, 
and much softer in consistence. The rigidity of the muscles was like- 
wise less violent when pressure was applied to the spine. 

Onthe 24th a ‘ charge’ was applied to the whole of the lumbar region ; 
mineral and vegetable tonics were daily given with the iodide of potas- 
sium, and exercise was enjoined. 

From this date up to the 18th of November there was a gradual 
wasting away of the muscles; the appetite was generally good, the 
animal eating an average quantity of the most nutritious provender 
that could be obtained. 

During this period the urine became highly impregnated with 
albumen, but which gradually diminished in quantity, until on the 18th 
of November, after which time I entirely failed to detect its presence. 

On several occasions during the above period, the peculiar spasmodic 
contraction of the muscles, the tympanitic state of the abdomen, the 
anxious and protruding eyes, and the intense suffering would come on, 
but lasted only for a short time. These symptoms generally occurred 
two or three days in succession, and were not again seen for six or 
eight days. 

On the 18th of November I found that the tumour was very much 
smaller, and also soft and flaccid. The pulse and breathing were 
perfectly natural, both in character and number. The spasmodic 
contraction of the muscles did not occur even when pressure was 
applied to the spine, and the animal looked more cheerful and lively. 

From this date up to the beginning of December the mare slightly 
improved in condition, and I had more hopes of her ultimate recovery, 
but on the 6th of December the symptoms again returned, and in as bad a 
formas before. They continued for several days, and then disappeared. 

On the 23rd of December, at eight o’clock in the evening, she was left 
apparently no worse. She drank an unusual quantity of water, and 
ate her food with avidity ; but early on the following morning she was 
found dead and cold. 

Post-Mortem APPEARANCES.—The thoracic viscera, the spleen and 
the liver, were all very pale in colour, but otherwise healthy. The left 
kidney was very much enlarged. The stomach, intestines, bladder, 
uterus, and right kidney were likewise healthy ; but the pancreas was 
filled with small tumours, varying in size from a pea to a walnut, which 
contained a yellowish jelly-like substance. The spinous processes of 
the lumbar vertebre were extensively diseased. The second, third and 
fourth cervical vertebrz were extensively diseased. In the broad, flat 
spinous process of the dentata, there existed a circular aperture, extend- 


312 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


ing from side to side, and from the arch to the top of the process at the 
point of its bifurcation. On the lateral and anterior part of the body 
on the left side the disease had made equal ravages, extending into the 
foramen at the base of the odontoid process. Immediately above the 
transverse process, on the same side, the destruction of bone extended 
from an inch and a half upwards and backwards, invading a nearly 
circular portion, and removing a large part of the articulation formed 
by the left half of the spinous process of the dentata and the anterior 
articular process in the third vertebra. At the antero-inferior part of 
the body of the bone, the disease had established a complete communi- 
cation, nearly an inch in diameter, with the spinal canal, but the dura 
mater was not destroyed. 

In all the affected portions there was a considerable quantity of 
bony material removed, forming large cavities, which were filled 
with a reddish-looking mass, presenting precisely the same appearances 
as those of the lumbar spine. In the third and fourth vertebrae 
the lesions were less extensive, but showed the same characteristic 
appearances, 


Symptoms of Tumours of the Cord.— The symptoms 


of spinal tumours will necessarily vary much, in accordance 
with the seat and extent of the tissue invaded. 


In many cases there is muscular spasm, followed after- 


wards by loss of motor power. There is pain on pressure 
over the seat of the tumours, and symptoms are of slow 
progress in most instances. 

In those cases where symptoms of paralysis or loss of 
function are manifested, recovery cannot be hoped for, and 
treatment is of little avail. 


SCLEROSIS OF THE NERVE-CENTRES. 


By sclerosis of the nerve-tissue we understand an indu- 
ration or ae of the textures in varying extent and 
situation. 

Sclerosis of bib: nerve-centres is not of common occur- 
rence among horses. We have met with more than one 
instance of sclerosis affecting the cerebellum. 

Mr. Robertson also records some instances affecting the 
cerebellum and the spinal cord in adult horses which had 
been subjected to hard work. 

Ktiology.—Hereditary predisposition, overwork, exhaus- 


DISEASES OF THE NERVOUS SYSTEM. 313 


tion, are among the chief causes of sclerosis. It has 
been observed that the families of animals so affected 
were subject in some instances to various nervous affections, 
such as spasms, which were generally of a choreic nature. 
Sclerosis may also follow as a sequel of some affections, such 
as certain fevers or inflammatory actions involving various 
parts of the nervous system. 

Symptoms.— When the sclerosis involved the lobes of 
the cerebellum, it was noticed that the animal showed a 
tendency to execute gyratory movements, and had spas- 
modic contractions of the muscles of the eyeballs. 

In all scleroses in the first instance, the motor power 
appeared to be more affected than the sensory. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Pale greyish patches of varying 
extent may be found at the seat of disease. These changes 
have been observed especially on the lateral lobes of the 
cerebellum. In one case under our notice these changes 
were confined {to the left lobe of the cerebellum; the 
cerebral hemispheres were healthy. 

Sclerosis of the nerve-tissue is characterized by the growth 
of a large quantity of fibrous tissue, and by atrophy and de- 
generation of the nerve-elements themselves. 

The tissue resembles such as is formed in productive in- 
flammation, and sclerosis has in consequence been regarded 
as of inflammatory origin. 

Some authorities, however, view the increase of connective- 
tissue as due to hyperplasia of the neuroglia, the cause 
being unknown (Green). 

Treatment.—Nux vomica, or its alkaloid strychnine, with 
other vegetable tonics and iron, in conjunction with a good 
nutritious diet, are likely to ‘prove beneficial, though com- 
plete recovery is perhaps only to be expected in very excep- 
tional instances, where the nervous changes have not made 
any great progress. 


314 . MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


CHOREA. 


Definition.—Chorea is a peculiar disorder characterized by 
irregular clonic contractions of different muscles, especially 
those of the posterior extremities, 

Nature and Etiology.—There is great doubt as to the 
true nature of chorea. Asin man, it is of more frequent 
occurrence in the young, but though similar in many points 
in the equine species, it nevertheless cannot be regarded as 
strictly analogous with chorea in man. 

Hereditary predisposition is perhaps the chief cause of 
chorea, though malhygienic conditions, overwork and ex- 
haustion, may also act as exciting causes.* 

In the horse, chorea is only exceptionally the sequel of 
other diseases, such, for example, as the specific fevers. 

Several theories have been propounded from time to time 
to account for chorea. 

By some it is regarded as a purely functional disorder, 
2.¢., unassociated with any organic change. 

By others it is held to be due to some diseased condi- 
tion of the blood, probably associated with rheumatism. 

In some instances, at any rate, organic changes have been 
found after death. 

Stringhalt, an involuntary convulsive action of the muscles 
of one or both hind-legs, occasionally affecting the fore-legs, 
may be regarded as a choreic affection. 

Stringhalt probably depends upon some special lesion 
interfering with the functions of the nerves supplying the 
affected muscles, or of the spinal cord itself. 

* Mr. Williams, in his ‘ Principles of Veterinary Medicine,’ says he 
has on record one instance where four young horses, the progeny of a 
dam which was affected in the back, died from spinal paralysis before 


they had attained the age of thirteen years. <A fifth showed signs of 
aggravated nervo-muscular disturbance, 


CHOREA. 315 


Sometimes, however, it is of a reflex character, being due 
to peripheral irritation, as, for example, when a bone spavin 
presses upon the bones of the hock (Williams). 

In grey horses, however, it has been occasionally observed 
to be due to a deposit of melanotic matter in the sheath of 
the great crural nerves, and two cases are recorded in which 
it was due to exostosis of the ilium pressing on the sciatic 
nerve. 

Symptoms.—The spasms occurring in chorea are some- 
times very persistent, at other times they only occur at long 
intervals. 

They present every degree of intensity, sometimes being 
very slight, sometimes very severe. 

‘ Shivering’ is a peculiar nervo-muscular disorder affecting 
the muscles of the back and posterior extremities. 

When a horse the subject of this affection is backed or 
turned, the muscles of this region are thrown into clonic 
spasm, contracting and relaxing irregularly. The tail is 
often spasmodically elevated, and then depressed. When 
the horse is trotted forwards, the spasmodic contractions are 
very seldom developed, but they may be brought into action 
by the head being turned round rapidly. 

In some instances the spasmodic contractions of the 
muscles of the loins and thighs come on while the animal is 
drinking. Though the posterior is more frequently affected 
than other parts, choreic disturbance may also affect the 
muscles of the neck and anterior extremities. 

The spasmodic contractions in this region are very 
variable in severity and in the time of recurrence. 

Morbid Anatomy.—Though in many instances nervous 
lesions have been found in connection with the brain and 
cord in chorea, yet no one in particular can be said to be 
specially characteristic of this affection. 

In some instances tumours have been found in the 


316 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


ventricles. Melanotic disease was the cause of chorea in a 
case recorded by Professor Williams. In one instance before 
our notice, hyperzemia of the cord and of the basal ganglia 
of the brain was observed. 

Effusion into the sub-arachnoid cavity of the brain and 
cord, with thickening of the serous covering of the brain, 
and various changes in the nerve texture, are also mentioned 
as having been met with. 

Treatment.—lIn the first place it is necessary in all cases 
of chorea to remove the cause when that is possible. 

The general hygienic conditions should be carefully 
attended to; the diet should be good and nutritious, and 
the work proportionate to the strength of the animal. 

Internally, mineral tonics, such as salts of iron, zinc, or 
Fowler’s solution, with vegetable tonics, are worthy of trial. 


EPILEPSY. 


Definition.-—Epilepsy is a peculiar affection of the nervous 
system, characterized by sudden temporary loss of conscious- 
ness, and associated for the most part with a convulsive 
attack which, in many instances, cannot be traced to any 
organic disease. 

The fits are of variable severity and duration, and may 
be succeeded by debility, and sometimes by a drowsy or 
semi-comatose condition. 

Pathology and Morbid Anatomy.—There are not many 
affections of the pathology of which we are so much in 
doubt as we are about that of epilepsy. 

With regard to the causes of this affection we know but 
little definitely, but hereditary predisposition is very pro- 
bably, as in chorea, an important factor in its production. 

Epileptic attacks, being manifested under {very different 


+ 


Cf 


EPILEPSY. | 317 


conditions of the system, cannot be regarded as a distinct 
and separate affection. Like jaundice, epilepsy is an accom- 
paniment of several different diseased states. 

In many cases after death no organic lesion is discover- 
able in epileptic animals, and the affection is in these 
instances regarded as functional. 

It may depend upon disease of the brain, such, for example, 
as the deposition of morbid growths and inflammatory 
action, or other changes in the texture of the cerebral 
structure. | 

In some cases in man, epilepsy has been proved to be due 
to irritation of the brain caused by the projection of pieces 
of bone. This may also be a cause of this disease in the 
horse in some instances. 

Finally, epilepsy may depend upon alterations in the 
blood-supply to the brain, and may be caused by reflex 
irritation from various distant organs in a state of disease. 

The medulla oblongata and upper part of the cord are re- 
garded by Dr. Reynolds as the primary seat of epilepsy. 
Some observers are of opinion that the parts primarily 
affected are the medulla oblongata, the corpora striata, and 
other parts of the base of the brain. 

Brown Séquard has shown that epilepsy can be artificially 
produced in the guinea-pig by section of one of the lateral 
columns of the cord, anywhere between the medulla oblon- 
gata and the tenth dorsal vertebra. It must, however, be 
remembered that convulsion is by no means the most dis- 
tinctive element in an epileptic attack. And, indeed, how- 
ever seriously the cord and medulla and ganglia at the brain 
base may be affected subsequently in an attack, the earliest 
phenomena of an epileptic seizure must be connected with 
some limited spot in the nerve-centres, which, though diffe- 
rent in different cases, is probably always the same for the 
same case (Bristow). 


318 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In some instances of post-mortem examination in the 
horse, extensive disease of the membranes has been ob- 
served ; but in many cases no abnormal lesions whatever 
were discoverable. 

Symptoms.—In the human being an epileptic attack is 
not unfrequently preceded by what is termed the ‘aura,’ 
which is a subjective sensation of coldness, heat, tingling, 
etc. This, though of course not detectible in the horse, 
may likewise precede the epileptic seizure. 

The horse, when attacked, staggers, champs his jaws, 
becomes unconscious, and falls to the ground convulsed. 

Sometimes the spasms are very slight, and the animal 
quickly regains consciousness and seems as well as ever. 

Sometimes the spasms are confined to one limb, some- 
times to one side of the body, or to the muscles of a parti- 
cular region, as the facial and cervical region. 

In some instances the convulsions are very severe, and the 
breathing seems to be stayed for a time by the tense con- 
traction of the respiratory muscles. 

_ The animal froths at the mouth, grates its teeth, moves 
its head quickly to and fro, and tosses about wildly. 

Opisthotonos, or bending of the trunk backwards, is 
sometimes produced by spasmodic contraction of the 
muscles. 

The pulse is generally full and accelerated, though it may 
be weak and not much above the normal in frequency. 

After a while, when the tonic spasms, succeeded by the 
clonic spasms, have abated, the animal regains conscious- 
ness. 

Sometimes he remains dazed, as it were, semi-comatose ; 
at other times he may manifest great weakness. 

Treatment.—During the paroxysm cold water may be 
dashed upon the head, and all means should be adopted to 
prevent the horse harming himself in his convulsions. 


TETANUS. 319 


In plethoric animals bleeding is recommended by some 
authorities. 

After the attack is over the general health should be 
attended to, the diet carefully regulated, and the bowels 
opened. 

If the disease depend upon peripheral irritation, as, for 
example, that which may be set up by worms, anthelmintics 
and purgatives should be administered. 

In other cases a course of bromides may be administered. 
Bromide of ammonium, potassium and sodium, combined 
with a vegetable tonic, are perhaps the most efficacious of 
all remedies in subduing epileptic attacks when traceable to 
disease of the medulla and brain. 

Belladonna is also of value in the treatment of epilepsy, 
and may be tried should the bromides fail. 

Other remedies which have been recommended in epilepsy 
are zinc, silver, iron, and arsenic salts. 


TETANUS OR LOCKJAW. 


Definition.—Tetanus is a diseased condition characterized 
by tonic spasms of the voluntary muscles, and to some ex- 
tent, probably, of the involuntary muscles also. 

The spasms are painful, and from time to time undergo 
exacerbation, followed by intervals of repose. 

Etiology and General Pathology.—Of the domestic 
animals, the horse and sheep are the most liable to tetanus ; 
but the disease is very rarely seen in the ox tribe. 

Tetanus frequently arises in connection with wounds, 
though it also occurs without any obvious cause whatever. 
When traceable to an injury, it is spoken of as traumatic 
tetanus ; when it arises without apparent cause, it is called 
idiopathic tetanus. 

The liability to traumatic tetanus is in no way dependent 


320 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


upon the severity of the injury, as this affection may follow 
even very slight wounds. It is most likely to follow lace- 
rated wounds or punctures. 

Wounds in the feet, thighs, quarters, and forearm are 
especially liable to be followed by tetanus; and this is 
more particularly the case when the nerves are injured. 

Wounds, it will thus be seen, in parts which are the most 
tense, and in structures bound together by strong unyielding 
tissues, are more frequently succeeded by tetanus than in- 
juries in the laxer tissues. 

Injuries in the joints, although frequently inducing a high 
febrile condition, are nevertheless not often followed by 
tetanus. 

The operations after which the disease most commonly 
supervenes are docking and castration ; and, in some in- 
stances, the insertion of setons has been followed by an 
attack. 

In some cases tetanus has been traceable to irritation of 
the stomach and intestines, caused by worms or collections 
of sand in the large intestines, 

Uterine irritation following abortion is also a cause of 
tetanus in some instances. 

Exposure to cold and damp, especially after exhaustion, 
may induce tetanus. 

Horses, when exposed in cold weather after being clipped, 
are sometimes affected, and sheep similarly, when exposed 
in cold and boisterously wet weather immediately after 
being shorn, are said to be very liable to become affected 
with this disease. - 

Tetanus is more prevalent in certain districts than in 
others. In some parts of the country it is very frequently 
met with, while in others it is as rarely seen. 

Sometimes it occurs as an enzootic disease, and Mr. 
Williams records that in the summer of 1858 he witnessed 


TETANUS. pp 


10 cases in a fortnight, of which some were traumatic, the 
others not being traceable to any injury. 

In the human species tetanus is often idiopathic in hot 
countries. | 

Of the true nature of tetanus there is considerable doubt. 
Some hold that the traumatic variety is due to irritation of 
the nerves implicated in the wound, and that the muscular 
spasms result from reflex irritation. 

In support of this it is argued that many cases of tetanus 
following docking have recovered after repeating the opera- 
tion higher up. Yet it must be remembered that recovery 
by no means invariably follows the repetition of the opera- 
tion, and, moreover, some cases of traumatic tetanus recover 
without any treatment whatever. 

By some authorities tetanus is considered to be a blood 
disease, and several reasons have been advanced in support 
of this view, viz., 

(1.) Tetanus often occurs idiopathically without any 
injury. | 

(2.) It is more prevalent in certain districts than in 
others, and is sometimes enzootic, affecting several animals 
in the same district. There is, however, no proof that 
tetanus is ever contagious. 

(3.) The resemblance to hydrophobia and _ strychnine 
poisoning suggests a similarity in the nature of the 
cause. 

(4.) Tetanus is said to be transmissible to men by eating 
the flesh of animals which have died of this disease. Of 
the truth of this the herdsmen of the districts on the River 
Plate are confident; yet, nevertheless, confirmatory evi- 
dence seems to be lacking. Mr. Robertson records that 
he has known of dogs fed on horses which had died of 
tetanus, and does not recollect any evil results ensuing in 
consequence. 

21 


322 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Other reasons have also been given in support of the view 
that tetanus is a blood disease. | 

The assertion that the spasms begin in muscles which 
have no anatomical connection with the injured nerves 
cannot be regarded as of any weight whatever in deciding 
in favour of the affection being a blood disease. 

In what manner is the blood then altered ? 

Are we to look to changes in its quality, or to the presence 
in it of some endopathic poison resembling strychnine in 
its effects, as suggested by Sir T. Watson and Dr. Richard- 
son? Or are we to look for the presence of living microbes 
in the blood, as, indeed, have been demonstrated by M. 
Pasteur in patients suffering from hydrophobia ? 

This question for the present remains unsettled, but it 
seems not improbable that tetanus may eventually prove to 
be due to the presence and development of living germs in 
the blood and tissues. 

We may, perhaps, the more easily understand tetanus as 
a disease if we first consider cursorily some of the phenomena 
exhibited by a tetanized muscle. | 


If a nerve-muscle preparation be carefully made and preserved, and 
the nerve be irritated in any way whatever, the muscle will respond to the 
application of this new incident force by anaggregate of changes which 
are collectively spoken of as a contraction. 

Further, if during the period of maximum intensity of the contrac- 
tion another equal stimulus be applied, the additional response will be 
nearly equal to the first. 

A lever suitably attached to the muscle will be raised very nearly 
as much again, the amount of the two contractions will be nearly twice 
that of the first alone. If more stimuli of equal intensity be succes- 
sively applied, with each subsequent irritation, the amount of the conse- 
quent contraction becomes gradually less, until at length, when the 
stimuli reach a certain number in a given time, the lever is not raised 
higher, but the component contractions are apparently united, fused, 
as it were, to form a single continuous uniform contraction, and though 
really still existing, are not to be indicated by ordinary instruments. 

This condition of a muscle, which is called tetanus, may be pro- 
duced by the interrupted current, or by any rapidly repeated shocks. 
The frequency of the stimuli needed to produce tetanus differs in dif- 
ferent cases, 


TETANUS. o20 


‘Kronecker and Stirling find that ten stimuli per second will cause 
complete tetanus in the red muscles of the rabbit, whereas the pale 
muscles require at least double that number. 

‘When the stimuli are repeated more frequently than is required to 
bring about a complete tetanus, the constituent contractions are still 
proportionately increased in frequency. ‘This is shown by the increased 
pitch of the muscular sound. 

‘Kronecker and Stirling, by using a special instrument for rapid 
interruption, the so-called tone inductorium, have been able to obtain in 
all cases a complete tetanus with alternating induction shocks, even when 
repeated, they believe, as frequently as 22,000 times a second’ (Foster). 

Thus it appears that the number of constituent contractions which 
may coalesce to form a tetanus is very great indeed, and we can only 
conclude from this that in the disease where so many muscles are in- 
volved the expenditure of force entailed is enormous, even if we suppose 
that the spasms are not of a very complex character, that is, are not 
constituted by a large number of component contractions. 

Every time a muscle contracts there is manifestly an expenditure of 
energy. Work is done; force is supplied, directly or indirectly, by 
means of the dissociation of highly complex organic compounds, of 
whose nature little is known, and thus waste products are produced.— 
From an article in the VETERINARIAN (Oct. 1882), by Mr. J. B. 


Gresswell. 

Varieties and Symptoms.—There are several varieties 
of tetanus, which have received various names from the 
particular muscles mainly involved. 

As a general term tetanus comprises all the varieties, 
and involves a greater or less number of the voluntary 
muscles, and probably also some sets of involuntary 
muscles. 

When the muscles of mastication are alone or in chief 
part affected, the condition is called trismus, or lock-jaw. 
This is noticeable as being in most cases of tetanus a prelude 
to the succeeding symptoms. 

When the superior cervical and dorsal muscles are 
especially affected, producing elevation of the head, and 
curving downwards of the spine, the affection is called 
opisthotonos. 

When the muscles of one side are affected, the condi- 
tion is called pleurosthotonos, or tetanus lateralis. 


When the inferior muscles are involved, the chin drawn 
21—2 


324 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


towards the heart, and the spine arched backwards, the 
condition is spoken of as emprosthotonos. 

This latter condition is very rarely met with in horses, 
but has been observed on one occasion at any rate, 
being produced by rigid contraction of the inferior 
muscles. 

Generally, however, in the horse trismus with opistho- 
tonos is the condition met with ; pleurosthotonos is some- 
times, though not frequently, observed. 

Tetanus may be acute, sub-acute, or chronic. 

When this affection owes its origin to a wound, it usuaily 
manifests itself in from ten to twenty-eight days after the 
infliction of the injury. 

Generally there is first noticed a stiffness about the neck 
and lower jaw, and of the muscles near the seat of injury, 
and there is difficulty in mastication and deglutition, to- 
gether with increase of the secretion of saliva, and a peculiar 
champing of the teeth. 

If the head be suddenly elevated, or the horse suddenly 
disturbed, there is a characteristic protrusion of the mem- 
brana nictitans over the eyes, which are withdrawn within 
the orbits, thus causing the animal to show the white con- 
junctival surface at every convulsive retraction. 

As the disease. advances, the stiffness becomes more 
marked, especially in the muscles of mastication and in 
those of the upper part of the neck, and soon spreads to 
other groups of voluntary muscles, especially those of the 
abdomen, back, and hind-quarters. 

At length the tetanic condition becomes fully established, 
and is very apparent even to a superficial observer. 

The limbs are extended, and kept apart; the tail is 
elevated, and the animal moves in a peculiar, stiff, straddling 
way, with difficulty and pain. 

The pulse is generally not much affected in the first in- 


TETANUS. , 325 


stance, but in a day or two it becomes accelerated, and the 
artery becomes firm, hard, and incompressible. In very 
acute cases, however, the pulse may become much accelerated 
in the very early stages. 

The temperature rises considerably in some very severe 
cases ; generally, however, itis not markedly high. 

The bowels are usually constipated, and the bladder be- 
comes contracted. 

During the course of the disease there are periods of 
calm alternating with violent paroxysms. 

These latter are easily induced by any sudden disturb- 
ance of the patient by loud noises, or by sudden flashes of 
light into the darkened box. Quietude tends to subdue 
the paroxysms in a corresponding degree. 

During their continuance the breathing becomes more 
accelerated and difficult, and the surface of the body is 
bedewed with perspiration ; the nostrils are dilated, and 
the nose protruded. 

Course and Prognosis.—The duration of tetanus varies 
very markedly. Some of the most severe cases have been 
known to run their entire course in less than forty-eight 
hours. 

In other instances, the animal may live two or three 
weeks, and then succumb at the end of that period. 

As a rule, tetanus runs a more rapid course in thorough- 
bred horses than in animals of coarser breed, and appears 
to be of a more active type in excitable horses than in 
animals less sensitive to external agencies. 

In the horse it usually assumes an acute or sub-acute 
form. 

When the disease does not prove fatal, the tetanic con- 
dition declines slowly, lasting from three to five weeks or so.* 


* In a case quite recently under our notice, the muscles of the near 
side of the neck of a young pony continued in a state of contraction for 


326 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


In some very severe cases the breath becomes foetid be- 
fore death, and if the mouth be examined, a quantity of 
slate-coloured epithelium is found on the inner surfaces of 
the lips, gums, and tongue (Williams). — 

Morbid Anatomy.—In some instances the spinal cord is 
found to be congested in varying extent and position, and 
microscopic examination in some instances reveals patho- 
logical lesions, which, though perhaps not characteristic, are 
nevertheless very marked. 

The right side of the heart is sometimes found engorged 
with blood, and the lungs and other organs sometimes con- 
gested. 

In some instances, one or more of the muscles may be 
found ruptured from the violence of the muscular spasm. 

Microscopic Appearances of the Nerve-structure.—The 
perineurium around the nerves proceeding from the seat of — 
injury is sometimes thickened. In a case in which after 
death a piece of straw was found imbedded in the meta- 
tarsal nerve, the latter was found highly congested by Mr. 
D. Gresswell for some distance from the actual seat of injury. 

In the epineurium surrounding the nerve-bundles no 
special change was noted, but each bundle contained an 
amount of granular material which stained deeply, and was 
very probably the result of inflammatory action. 

The ultimate nerve-fibrils were altered, and the medullary 
sheaths of Schwann were shrunken, while the axis cylinders 
appeared as though split into several segments. 

In no instance have we been able to detect any special 
change in the sympathetic nerves or ganglia. 

Sometimes the spinal cord is much altered in certain 
parts. In one instance, following on very severe injury of 


upwards of four months, and after that time gradually relaxed. During 
the latter three months the animal was perfectly well in every other 
respect. 


TETANUS. o2e 


— 


the posterior extremity, patches of altered tissue were found 
in both lateral columns, and in the posterior grey horns of 
the spinal cord in the lumbar and dorsal regions. 

These were less numerous in the cervical region, and 
stained deeply with hematoxylin. They were visible to 
the naked eye as rounded oblong patches. 


Fig. 5.—Section of peripheral part of the spinal cord of the horse in 
the lateral column of the lumbar region. 1. White fibres in section. 
2. Patches of altered tissue.k—A. Gresswell. 


The cord and its membranes were congested in parts. 

Treatment.—The animal should be placed in a large 
well-bedded and well-ventilated loose box, which should be 
kept dark. 

Strict quietude should in all cases be enjoined, and is 
of the utmost importance in the treatment of this affection. 

Among the many drugs which have been tried for the 
cure of this disease, no one in particular can be looked upon 
in the light of a specific. 


328 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


A moderate dose of some purgative should be administered 
in the first place, and the bowels afterwards kept open by 
a laxative diet of mashes and oatmeal gruel. 

The wound, if there be any, should be carefully examined, 
and all irritating matter washed away. | 

In cases of tetanus following docking, the operation is 
repeated by some, but is condemned by other authorities. 
The late Mr. D. Gresswell advocated the repetition of the 
operation in such cases. 

Of the many remedies recommended for the treatment. 
of tetanus may be mentioned—helladonna, hydrocyanic 
acid, nicotine, aconite, chloroform, chloral hydrate, bro- 
mides of sodium and potassium, morphia, Calabar bean, 
salicine, and alkalies. 

Of the Calabar bean and its alkaloid, physostigmina, we 
cannot speak favourably. 

On the whole we have had most success with nicotine, 
chloroform, tincture of aconite, caustic potash and morphia. 

Chloral hydrate has also proved of value in many cases. 

Belladonna may be given in the form of extract or tinc- 
ture. If the extract be selected, about one drachm or more 
may be given three times daily. It may be administered 
by smearing it over the tongue or by placing it among the 
back teeth. 

Tincture of aconite or morphia are very useful in allaying 
severe paroxysms, as also is chloroform. 

If hydrocyanic acid and bromide of potassium be given, 
they may be added to the drinking water. Of the hydro- 
cyanic acid, 3i. may be given three times daily with 31.— 
Ziv. of potassium bromide. 

With regard to the question of slinging, authorities are 
not of one opinion. We are disposed to advocate slinging 
in the early stages, in the case of heavy draught horses 
used for agricultural or other purposes. 


TETANUS. - M29 


In the case of thoroughbred or very nervous excitable 
horses, the advisability of slinging is questionable. Con- 
sidering, however, that horses already recovering some- 
times fall when the muscles begin to relax, and, struggling 
violently, bring on the spasmodic contraction more severely, 
some advise slinging loosely, at any rate, but not so as to 
irritate or annoy the animal. 

Locally, liniment of belladonna and camphor may be 
applied along the spine. Irritating liniments and mustard 
are recommended by some, but probably they do as much 
harm as good. Other authorities recommend the applica- 
tion of ice-bags. 


ENZOOTIC PARAPLEGIA — GRASS- 
STAGGERS. 


Definition.—‘Is a disease affecting horses feeding on rye- 
grass at a particular period of its growth, and characterized 
by disturbance of the innervation, especially by impair- 
ment or loss of motor, and more rarely of sensory, power 
of the posterior extremities’ (Robertson). 

Nature and Etiology.—Enzootic paraplegia rarely or 
never occurs when fed on any food save rvye-grass at a 
particular period of its growth ; and we believe with Mr. 
Robertson that it is to be regarded as a different affection 
from that termed ‘stomach or sleepy staggers.’ In the 
disease under consideration, spinal symptoms are the 
essential features, though cerebral symptoms may be also 
developed, especially in severe cases, 

In stomach staggers, on the contrary, cerebral symptoms 
are essential features. 

This reflex or sympathetic paraplegia does not seem to 
have any relation to the quantity of the food taken, but 
only to its quality ; and it appears as an enzootic affection 
where horses are grazed on land where rye-grass abounds. 


330 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Cattle and sheep are also liable to become affected 
through eating rye-grass; and although some seem to 
regard these morbid states in ruminants as being similar 
to reflex paraplegia, Mr. Robertson is rather doubtful of 
any similarity. 


According to this authority, ‘acute diseases of animals, 


intimately associated with or resulting from dietetic causes, 
are all, or nearly all, apparently referable to changes in con- 
nection with the cerebral part of the system, and paraplegia 
alone is not a diagnostic feature of them.’ 

It must be remembered that ruminants seemingly have a 
greater power of resistance against most vegetable poisons, 
and whereas the horse, when grazing, is disposed to eat the 
flowering stems almost entirely to the exclusion of the 
foliage of the plants, the ox crops both foliage and seed 
stems, and the sheep mostly keeps closely to the root foliage. 
It is, therefore, not to be wondered at if dissimilar symptoms 
are manifested by these animals. 

The immediate cause of the reflex paraplegia seems to be 
due to the tonic influence of the rye-grass while the seed is 
being matured. 

In some of the features the disease appears to bear a certain 
resemblance to ergotism. 

Symptoms.—The symptoms are gradually developed, and 
the animal manifests deficient controlling ‘power over the 
voluntary muscles, especially in those of the hind extre- 
mities. | 

The weakness gradually increases, and the animal reels or 
staggers. 

There is usually no unconsciousness, and in most instances 
the animal continues in the standing position. 

The appetite does not generally suffer, and though the 
pulse is accelerated and temperature elevated in severe 
cases, they are nevertheless, in the general way, nat altered. 


‘8 


ENZOOTIC PARAPLEGIA. Sal 


The bowels are generally constipated. Muscular spasms 
are occasionally developed. 

When the animal falls, the muscular spasms are some- 
times very severe ; consciousness becomes impaired ; the 
breathing becomes stertorous, and death soon closes the 
scene. i 

Prognosis and Morbid Anatomy.—The mortality is small, 
and when the cases are attended to in the early stages 
death is very rare. 

The post-mortem appearances are neither very character- 
istic nor well made out. 

Treatment.—The animal should be removed to a fresh 

asture, in the first place. 

In most instances recovery then follows without further 
treatment. 

If a purgative medicine be given at first, the animal 
should be brought up to the stable. 

Tonics, such as gentian, ginger, and nux vomica, may follow 
the administration of the purgative. 


CHAPTER XL 
EQUINE ENTOZOA. 


THE entozoa which infest the horse are divided into four 
groups— 


I. TREMATODA, or FLUKES. 


The trematodes are so called because their bodies are 
studded with little perforations or suckers. 

The word ‘fluke’ is derived from an old Saxon term 
signifying anything flat. 

Flukes are oval or flat, but they may be spherical, whilst 
others, such as the Bilharzia, are more lengthened. 

This group is divided into several families, according to 
the number of mouths they possess. The six families recog- 
nised are as follow : 


. Monostomide. 
. Distomide. 

. Amphistomide. 
. Tristomide. 

. Polystomide. 

. Gyrodactylide. 


SO ore oo LS 


The chief flukes recorded as having been found in the 


horse are— 
(A.) Fasciola Hepatica, otherwise known by the name 


of Distoma Hepatica, or the Liver Fluke. 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. Fs 


This parasite, although occasionally found in the horse, is 
more commonly encountered in the ass. Very few cases 
only are recorded of this worm being found in the horse, 
and, when present, it generally appears to be harmless. 

The life history of this interesting parasite will be more 
appropriately treated of in works on Bovine and Ovine 
Medicine. 

(B.) Amphistoma Collinsii and Stanleyi—These species 
are rarely found in the colon of horses, and are liable to set 
up intestinal irritation. The fresh specimens are of a brick- 
red colour, and have been sent from India. 

(C.) Gastrodiscus Sonsinonis.—This amphistome, which 
exceeds half an inch in length and one-third in breadth, was 
discovered by Dr. Sonsino in the carcases of solipeds which 
_ died in the Egyptian plague in 1876. 


II. CESTODA, or TAPEWORMS (xsoros, a girdle). 


This group includes not only the tapeworms, but also the 
cystic worms. The members of this group have two 
distinct phases of existence. In the one, the scolex of the 
parasite is connected with a so-called cyst or bladder, and 
is buried in the solid tissue of the host. In the other, 
the adult tapeworm is found in the alimentary canal. 

The adult worm is made up of a number of proglottides 
fastened on to a scolex, or head, which is fixed on to the 
mucous membrane of the gut. A fully matured tapeworm 
is thus in reality composed of a colony of zooids. 

Life-history of a Tapeworm.—When the proglottides, or 
segments of the adult worm, become mature, they pass off 
with the feces. Hach segment contains a quantity of ripe 
egos; these, becoming scattered about, may gain access to the 
alimentary canal of a suitable intermediary host. In this new 
situation the six-hooked embryo which is contained in the 


334 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


ege breaks its shell and obtains its liberty. The immature 
worm or embryo now passes through the intestinal wall and 
wanders about until it arrives at a spot suitable for its 
development into a perfect cyst. 

In this condition it will remain and perish, unless its host 
dies or is killed. In the latter case it may gain access to 
the intestinal canal of another host fitted for its further 
existence, and in this case the scolex fixes on to the gut, 
and the proglottides slowly develop. 

It is very rare that the same animal serves as host both 
for cyst and adult worm. 

Some tapeworms have hooks on their proboscides, others 
are devoid of hooks. 

The chief tapeworms of the horse are : 

(A.) Teenia Plicata.—This worm varies in length from six 
inches to three feet. It has a short neck, and a body com- 
posed of narrow segments, which give to the worm a blunt 
serrated margin. Its habitat is usually the small intestine, 
although it has occasionally been found in the stomach. 
Of all equine cestodes it is the largest. | 

(B.) Teenia Perfoliata.—The length of this parasite is from 
one to three inches ; it may, however, be five inches long. 
It may be recognised by the two fleshy lobes, the almost indis- 
tinct neck, and thevisible narrowing of the segments as they 
near the tail. The favourite habitat is the cecum and colon, 
where this worm is sometimes found in large numbers. 
Of equine cestodes, it is the most common, and may give 
rise to serious disturbance. 

(C.) Tenia Mamillana.—This member of the group is 
about half an inch long, and has no obvious neck, no 
lobes, and is made up of wedge-shaped segments with pro- 
minent reproductive papille. It infests the colon. 

Treatment of Tapeworms.—Such drugs as oil of male 
fern, absinthe oil, or oil of turpentine, should be given. 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. 335 


Cestode Epizooty.—This epizooty occurred among some 
ponies in South Wales, and among the prominent sym- 
ptoms were extension of the head, the animals appearing as 
though suddenly distracted, rubbing the quarters, running 
and rolling about for a few minutes, then getting up again, 
and appearing to be well again. If coming down a slope 
the animals would fall, and in some cases there was lame- 
ness in one hind-leg. 

Source of the Tapeworms of the Horse.—The cystic forms 
of tenia placata, tenia mamillana, and tenia perfoliata, are 
as yet unknown. ) 

Probably their larval forms exist in the bodies of different 
insects. 

Larval Forms of Tzenie.—Larval forms have received 
various names, according to their contents, viz. : 

1. A Cysticercus is a cyst filled with serum, and provided 
with only one head. 

2. A Cenurus is a cyst filled with serum, and wioriddd 
with many heads. 

3. An Echinococcus is a primary cyst, which contains, or 
which gives rise to, secondary cysts filled with serum, each 
provided with numerous heads. 


LARVAL FORMS OF TANIA OF THE HORSE. 


The larval cestodes of the horse are, comparatively speak- 
ing, somewhat rare. The one most frequently met with, 
however, is that of the Tzenia Echinococcus. , 

1, ECHINOCOCCUS VETERINORUM.—This cystic worm 
is the larval form of the tenia echinococcus, which infests 
the small intestines of the dog and wolf. 

The adult tapeworm is composed of four segments, or 
joints, and is a little over a quarter of an inch és length. 
The first joint includes the head, which is about 72, of an 


336 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


inch wide, and is provided with four suckers, a double 
coronet of hooklets, between thirty and forty in number, 
and a central rostellum. ) 

The fourth segment is as long as all the rest of the worm ; 
and is alone supplied with sexual organs. 

The cyst, larval form, or hydatid, which has received the 
name of echinococcus veterinorum, is characterized by almost 
indefinite increase in size, and by almost indefinite multipli- 
cation by the formation of gemme. 

This cyst, in its early form, is small and globular, with 
transparent walls and finely granular contents. In its later 
stages, when it has much increased in size, the walls become 
thick and the contents fluid. 

The colourless fluid and limpid contents contain a quantity 
of salt, and usually no albumen. 

The walls are composed of two coats, an outer, which is 
fairly thick, transparent, elastic and laminated, and an inner, 
which is thin, and made out of fine cells, sometimes contain- 
ing oval or globular refractive bodies. 

In some cases the hydatid is only increased in size, but 
as a rule secondary cysts form in the substance of its walls. 
The cysts grow—some towards the outer aspect, some in 
the mid-region, and some towards the inner aspect, and 
often in connection with the cellular lamine. 

The secondary cysts often repeat in their growth all the 
characters of the parent hydatid. 

This hydatid may be found in various organs and glands 
of the body, especially the lungs, liver and kidneys, and 
sometimes in the brain. They vary much in size, sometimes 
being as small as a pea, and occasionally encountered as 
large as a good sized cocoa-nut. They may or may not 
produce symptoms which vary according to the organs 
affected, and the size and exact position of the cyst. 

2. CENURUS CEREBRALIS.—This hydatid is the larval 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. gor 


form of the tenia ccenurus of the dog. Its full description 
will be more appropriately treated of in works on ovine 
pathology. 

It is rarely found to affect the horse, one authenticated 
instance of its presence in the brain only being recorded. 

3. CYSTICERCUS FISTULARIS, or Long Bladder-worm 
of the horse, is probably only a variety of the C. tenui- 
collis of ruminants. 

The muscle-flesh of horses is not liable to be infested by 
cysticerci, 


III. NEMATODES, OR ROUND-WORMS. 


The nematodes (vewa, a thread) comprise not only the 
round-worms, but also the thread-worms and the strongyles 
(this latter term meaning round or cylindrical). 

Included in this group are several families, among which 
are the 


fol 


. Ascaride. 

. Cheiracanthide. 
. Cucullanide. 

. Strongylide. 

. Trichinidee. 
Oxyuridee. 

. Trichocephalide. 
Filaride. 

. Gordiide. 

. Anguillulidee. 


bS 


OCOOMNIAD NB w 


ead 


The chief nematodes which infest the horse are the 
following : | 
1. ASCARIS MEGALOCEPHALA, or Lumbricoid Worm. 
—This worm is distinguished from the lumbricoid worm of 
man and pigs by its greater number of caudal papille. In 
length, the male of this species is rarely over seven inches, 
22 


338 — MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


but the female may attain a length of sixteen to eighteen 
inches. 

This worm has a smooth body with transverse rings, and 
may occur in any part of the intestinal canal, although 
it is especially found in the ilium and small intestine. 

With regard to the question how horses become’ affected, 
Dr. Cobbold writes: ‘It is not likely that any intermediate 
host is necessary for the growth of the larve, prior to their 
access to the definite host. JI have reared the larve in © 
impure water and in moist horse-dung up to the size of 4 
of aninch. They were then furnished with a completely 
formed digestive apparatus.’ Davaine kept the intra- 
chorional embryos alive in water for five or six years. 

It is noteworthy that the eggs of lumbricoids effectually 
resist dryness, and it is possible that horses become infected 
with the ascaris by drinking out of ponds containing sewage 
matter. , 

The equine ascaris may prove fatal by setting up enteritis, 
or by overcrowding it may cause rupture. 

Treatment.—Aliow nourishing diet, and give internally 
a brisk cathartic, ¢g., aloes, with 41 of antim. pot tart., 
and follow with vegetable tonics, sulphate of iron, and doses 
of santonine. 

Preventive Measures.—See that the water-supply is good, 
pour boiling water on all worms passed, and attend to the 
drainage. 

2. STRONGYLUS ARMATUS.—This worm has long been 
known to naturalists, and was formerly described as two — 
varieties, major and minor, which are now proved to be the 
same worm in different stages of growth. 

Description.—The body of the worm is rigid, the head 
lobular, flattened, truncated, and armed with numerous 
upright denticles, like a circular saw. 

The posterior ray of the hood of the male is three cleft. 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. 339 


The males are about one and a half inches long and the 
females two inches. 

The eggs, which are elliptical and somewhat constricted 
at the centre, pass from the parent worm and host with the 
feeces. , 

In a few days the rhabditiform larve are hatched, and in 
three weeks’ time change their skin in mud, and at the same 
time part with their tails. 

They next gain access to the bodies of some intermediary 
host, where they are still further matured, and from this 
gain access to the horse. 

From the intestinal canal they get into the small vessels 
of the intestine, and pass on to the larger arterial trunks, 
producing aneurism, caused by inflammation and thicken- 
ing of the intima (endo-arteritis). 

Lastly, these parasites make their way out of the vessels, 
and from thence endeavour to regain the colon, where they 
again change their skins, and, adhering to the mucous lining 
of the bowel by means of their spines, attain sexual matu- 
rity. During their wanderings they are apt to stray. 

Verminous Aneurism.—Occurs in a large percentage of 

horses and asses, and is especially found in the aorta and 
anterior mesenteric artery. 
' These aneurisms assume various forms, ¢g., thumb- 
shaped, or bottle-shaped, etc. ‘They may be simple or com- 
pound, and vary in size from a pea to a man’s head, and 
occur in animals six months old and upwards. The number 
of worms in one aneurism varies, and is usually nine to ten, 
the highest number in one horse being 121. 

We append a few extracts of Dr. Cobbold’s summary of 
the results of Bollinger’s investigations of this worm: 

‘The favourite seat of the worm-aneurism is the trunk of the anterior 
mesenteric artery, directly at its origin from the abdominal aorta. Most 


frequently that part of the arterial trunk is dilated, from which the 
999 
i ee | 


340 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


arteria ilia, czecales, and colica inferior (arteria ilio-czeco colica) arise, 
less frequently the arteria colica superior at its origin, and the arteries 
of the cecum and colon in their course in the meso-ceecum and meso- 
colon. The verminous aneurism also occurs in the cceliac artery 
(Bauchschlagader), in the posterior mesenteric artery (gekros-arterie), 
in the renal artery, and in the abdominal aorta. A horse is not unfre- 
quently afflicted with several aneurisms of this kind at one and the same 
time. Thus, in one case (described by Bollinger) there were six of these 
aneurisms affecting the abdominal aorta and its branches in the same 
horse. The verminous aneurism may occur from the sixth month of life 
onwards ; and with increasing age, the number of horses free from such 
aneurisms becomes continually smaller. 

‘The walls of the aneurism are, almost without exception, indurated. 
In addition to the mesenteric connective-tissue, all the arterial coats, 
and especially the tunica media, generally take part in this induration. 

‘The changesin the intima present all stages of progressive and retro- 
eressive metamorphosis, and are the least constant. 

‘The changes vary from simple induration to ulceration and calcifi- 
cation. In addition to the palisade worms, one almost constantly finds a 
parietal thrombus contained in the aneurism. It covers the inner walls, 
either partially or completely, being in the latter case perforated by 
arterial offshoots. This clot may occlude the artery, and it is not un- 
frequently continued into the arterial branches (peripherally), or into 
the aorta (centrally). Amongst the various changes that the clot under- 
goes, organization of its outermost layer and softening are the most 
frequent. Theconstant occurrence of this clot is due to the presence of 
the worms, to the inflammation, ulceration, and retrogressive affection 
of the intima, and to the dilatation of the arterial tube.’ 


3. STRONGYLUS TETRACANTHUS, or Four-Spined 
Strongyle.—This nematode is found in large numbers 
in the horse, ass, and mule, and though not an uncommon 
cause of epizooty in this country, is not so frequently met 
with on the Continent. 

These parasites infest the caecum and colon. Concerning 
this parasite Cobbold writes: ‘The males and females are 
of about equal size, the largest females reaching nearly 
three-quarters ”.’ 

In the sexually immature condition the worm occupies 
the walls of the large intestine, where it gives rise to con- 
gestion, ecchymosis, inflammation, and the formation of pus 
deposits. 

The species is readily recognised by its bright red colour, 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. 341 


by the four conical spines surrounding the mouth, by the 
two neck-bristles, and by the three-lobed long head of the 
male, and by the posterior three-cleft ray having a rudi- 
mentary or fourth branch attached to its outer edge. 

The head, when viewed in profile, is truncated, and from 
above it is round. The body is smooth, and presents indis- 
tinct rings. 

Development.—The eggs of the worm probably gain 
access to the intestines of small insects, and the immature 
form is swallowed by the horse in the water or in the 
fodder. 

The worms then become encapsuled in the mucous mem- 
brane of the large intestine, and are about three to six milli- 
metres long when uncoiled. 

In this condition the sexual apparatus is not developed ; 
and the skins are cast while the worm is still in its capsule. 

Dr. Cobbold, writing concerning the remaining history of 
the development of these worms, says after escaping the 
walls of the intestine, the worms re-enter the lumen of the 
bowel to undergo another change of skin prior to acquiring 
the adult state. They do this by rolling themselves within 
feecal matter of the horse’s intestine. In this state they 
lie coiled up in a kind of cyst or cocoon. 

In some districts the worm is not often met with, while 
in others it is most destructive. Mr. R. Lloyd was the first 
who recognised this worm as the cause of Welsh epizootic 
outbreaks. 

The worm gives rise to emaciation, colic, diarrhea, and 
sometimes to inflammation of the bowels. 

Sometimes the intestinal pain is very acute, and the animal 
rolls and tosses about in great agony. In other instances 
abdominal pain is not a marked feature. 

Treatment.—A purgative should be given in the first in- 
stance, and should be followed up by mashes, and afterwards 


342 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


by good nutritious food and the administration of tonics and 
stimulants. 

Some practitioners recommend the administration of 
turpentine ; but in our hands it has not proved of much 
benefit. 

4. OXYURIS CURVULA, or Pin-worm.—This worm is 
partly transparent, and is marked with transverse striz. 

In length the males are one and three-quarter inch, and 
the females from three to four inches, or even more. 

This worm has a long subulate tail. The usual habitat is 
the entire length of the colon, where they are apt to set up 
local irritation. 

The eggs accumulate round the anus; and, According to 
Cobbold, horses directly become infected with the worm by 
ingesting the eggs. 

Treatment.—Give cathartics and enemas; the latter 
should be medicated. 

5. SPIROPTERA MEGASTOMA, or Large- mouthed 
Maw-worm. 

The length of this species is from one-third to half an 
inch, the females being a little longer than the males. 

Dr. Cobbold thus describes this worm: ‘The males are 
one-third of an inch and the female half an inch long. Around 
the mouth are four thick horny lips, the dorso-ventral 
being the larger. The tail of the male is spirally twisted, 
and supplied with lateral bands, supported by three or four 
ribs. It carries two curved spicules of unequal size. There 
are five pairs of caudal papille, and the tail is bluntly 
pointed in both sexes. ‘The vulva of the female is about 
one-seventh” below the head. The eggs are linear, narrow, 
and possess thick shells.’ 

The parasites are found in tumours in the walls of the 
stomach, especially at the cardiac end; the tumours usually 
contain a bundle of worms together with pus. 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. 343 


~The tumours are apt to rupture, and the contents escape 
into the peritoneal cavity. 

6. SPIROPTERA MICROSTOMA.—This species, which 
may probably be regarded as a variety of spiroptera megas- 
toma, is found free in the stomach, and does not appear to 
be productive of injury. 

7. STRONGYLUS MICRURUS, or Lung-worm.—This 
parasite, although so productive of bronchitis in calves, 
rarely occasions serious results in solipeds. However, it is 
not unfrequently found in the bronchial tubes of asses and 
horses on post-mortem examination. 

8. STRONGYLUS GIGAS, or Renal Strongyle. — 
This worm has been found in the kidney of the horse. 
In 1792 it was observed by M. Chabert, and reported or 
witnessed by Rudolphi and Leblanc. 

9, FILARIA LACRYMALIS, or Small Eye-worm.— 
This thread-worm has been found between the lids and 
eyeball of the horse. 

The males are half an inch long, and the females two-thirds 
of aninch. It is viviparous. 

10. FILARIA PAPILLOSA, termed by some Filaria 
Oculi. 

The males are two to three inches long, the females five 
to seven inches. 

Description.—The head is broad ; the mouth wide, and 
surrounded by a ring of chitine, and possesses two den- 
ticles. On the neck are two papille, near the middle line ; 
besides sixteen caudal papille, eight on either side. The 
_ tail of the male is spirally twisted ; the tail of the female 
slightly curved. 

This worm infests the globe of the eye and its tunics, 
and is often contained in a cyst within the cornea. It is 
also found in the thorax, abdomen, membranes of the brain, 
muscle, and cellular tissues. 


344 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Dr. Manson considers that the eye is not the usual 
habitat for this parasite. 

The tracks of this worm may be readily seen. 

11. FILARIA SANGUINIS EQUI.—These microscopic 
nematodes were found by Dr. Sonsino in the blood of an 
Egyptian horse. 


IV. GSTRIDZ, OR GADFLIES. 


GASTROPHILUS EQUI, or Common Gad-fly, or Cistrus 
Equi.—Description.—The bot, which is the larval form 
of the gad-fly, has eleven segments arranged in double 
rows, and is of a red colour. The head is narrow and 
pointed, and the mouth is small, and placed between two | 
large hooks or maxilla. Between the hooks are two horny 
plates, called mandibles. The tail is broad, truncated, and 
flattened at the end. 

Development.—The gad-fly attacks the animals in late 
summer to lay its eggs, and this is done by fixing them to 
the neck, shoulders, and inner part of the fore-leg, espe- 
cially about the knees, by means of a sticky or glutinous 
secretion. 

The horse licks these parts with his tongue, and in less _ 
than three weeks after being first deposited the larve 
escape. 

From the tongue they gain access to the stomach, where 
they fix on to the mucous membrane by means of their 
hooks. | | 

When they attain their full size they become loose, and 
escape with the feeces and bury themselves in the soil, where 
they are transformed into pupe. 

Having remained in the earth about six or seven weeks, 
they emerge from their pupa cocoons perfect dipterous 
insects. 


EQUINE ENTOZOA. 345 


The male insects die, and the females live long enough 
to deposit their eggs, which are generally about forty in 
number. 

The bots of the horse live in the stomach in winter months, 
- leave in spring or early summer, and remain in the soil six 

or seven weeks. 

The fly is developed in June to September, and after the 
latest females have appeared all perish in October. 

The bots are as a rule comparatively harmless, but cause 
injury where great numbers are aggregated together. They 
may cause rupture, perforation, or tetanus. 

Treatment.— Weak carbolic solutions, cathartic medicine, 
and ethereal solutions may be given. 

GASTROPHILUS HAMORRHOIDALIS. — The larve 
are found attached to the walls of the rectum. 

GASTROPHILUS NASALIS.— The larve attach them- 
selves to the duodenum, near the pylorus. 


CHAPTER XII. 
TOXICOLOGY. 


A KNOWLEDGE of the actions of, and symptoms produced 
by, certain drugs and reagents, recognised in toxicology 
under the term ‘poisons,’ is of great importance to the 
veterinary practitioner. 

For a full account of the manner in which different poisons 
may be absorbed into the system, and for the detailed 
methods by which they may be detected, we must refer the 
reader to such works as ‘ Taylor on Poisons,’ or Dr. Tanner’s 
little work, 

Here we intend to treat of arsenical poisoning, acute and 
chronic ; lead poisoning, acute and chronic; and also, as 
shortly as possible, of poisoning by antimony, corrosive 
sublimate, hellebore, yew-tree foliage, opium, savin, bryony, 
water drop-wort, euphorbium or spurge, and cantharides. 


ARSENICAL POISONING. 


This metallic poison is usually administered to the 
horse in the form of arsenious trioxide, or common white 
arsenic. 

This substance is very commonly given by labourers and 
waggoners, and more rarely by grooms, in certain parts of 


TOXICOLOGY. 347 


the country. When given in excessive doses it is generally 
through ignorance, but in rare instances may be adminis- 
tered with criminal intent. 

The drug is usually given in bolus, made up with soap, 
tar, or sulphur, or indeed with any suitable substance. 
Sometimes it is administered as a powder in the food or 
water. 

Symptoms and Post-Mortem Appearances.—The fol- 
lowing accounts will serve to indicate some of the more 
important symptoms and post-mortem appearances of 
arsenical poisoning in the horse. We propose to draw 
attention, firstly, to an outbreak which occurred on a Thurs- 
day morning, some time ago, on a large farm on the Wolds, 
near Louth. 

When called in, at 3 a.m., four cart-horses were found 
to be in avery dangerous state. They were fine heavy 
animals, in excellent condition, and on the previous day 
had shown no signs whatever of ill-health. Their restless- 
ness first attracted attention about 12 or 1 am. When 
examined, they were observed to be breathing rapidly, the 
respirations varying from 30 to 40 per minute. The arteries 
were in a state of extreme contraction ; the submaxillary 
artery, indeed, feeling like a mere thread. ‘The rate, also, 
was much accelerated ; in one case, the pulse reached 108 ; 
in another, 96; in a third, 80 per minute; while in a 
fourth it was entirely imperceptible. The weakness and 
irregularity of the pulse were very marked. The tempera- 
ture varied: the highest was 105°5°; and in the other 
three it reached 104°, 102:°5°, and 101°8° respectively. 
All four animals were purging violently, with extreme 
tenesmus, and they were in great pain. They got up and 
down alternately, rolled over and over, and manifested 
other signs of intense agony. Their extremities were cold. 
and the visible mucous membranes injected. The eyes 


348 MANUAL OF .EQUINE MEDICINE, 


were staring, and the pupils much dilated. There was 
entire loss of appetite and extreme prostration. Eructa- 
tions of gas frequently passed from the stomach and 
intestines. 

The horse with the imperceptible pulse died at 10 a.m., 
a second died at 4 p.m., and a third at 10.30 p.m. Before 
death the animals became still more restless, the pulse was 
weaker, and finally imperceptible ; the mouth became 
clammy, and the breath fcetid, and they succumbed at 
length in a state of extreme agony and collapse. One 
became quite comatose before death, and another had 
tetanic spasms; the remaining animal recovered. For a 
time this horse remained so weak and debilitated as to be 
incapable of rising without assistance ; at length, however, 
he made a gradual and apparently complete recovery, but 
was not able to resume work for three or four months. 

On the following day a careful post-mortem examination 
was made in each of the three fatal cases. Thorax: The 
lungs were found to be much congested ; the endocardium 
of the left ventricle was highly inflamed, and patches of 
ecchymosis were found studding its surface in several 
places; the left ventricle was full of black coagulated 
blood. Abdominal cavity: The stomach was found to 
contain much undigested food, and the contents were 
tinged with blood. The cuticular portion had several small 
patches of redness, and its walls were eroded, in one of 
the three cases, near its junction with the villous portion. 
The villous portion was of a dark-brownish-red hue, being 
intensely inflamed, and covered in parts with a film of 
coagulated lymph. 

It was blackened in patches, and in parts was of a dirty 
yellow colour; while in some places the walls were much 
eroded, forming many large eschars, and in other places 
the mucous membrane was raised in the form of small 


TOXICOLOGY. 349 


bull, these being produced by effusion of blood beneath 
the lining membrane. — 

In one of the cases there were two almost complete 
perforations through the walls. 

The small intestines contained much dirty grey mucous, 
and presented patches of acute inflammation. The large 
intestines also showed signs of inflammation, the mucous 
membrane being reddened in patches. The peritoneum 
showed spots of ecchymosis in various places. 

The brain was not examined. 

Though the waggoner denied having administered arsenic, 
it was afterwards elicited that he had given to each of the 
horses a quantity of arsenious acid, made into balls by mix- 
ing it with tar. 

It was calculated that each horse received about 3iv. to 
31., but it was not possible to ascertain the exact amount. 

This he had given at about 8 or 9 p.m. on the previous 
day, April 11th. 

The symptoms here recorded, and the pathological lesions. 
found, are characteristic of acute arsenical poisoning; and 
arsenic in abundance was found in the contents of the 
stomachs. But the effects of arsenic vary much with the 
amount given, and with the method of administration. 

About 11 p.m., on June 20th last year, we were sum- 
moned to a team of four cart-horses belonging to a farmer 
who lived a few miles from Louth. The symptoms in these 
cases were much less severe than those above described. 

The pulses were 90, 72, 60, and 62 respectively, weak 
and fluttering. The submaxillary artery was contracted, 
and felt like a mere thread. The respirations were also 
increased, the legs and ears cold, and there was total 
anorexia. 

One of the animals, an old cart-mare, became violently 
purged about 12 p.m., and the liquid feces were blood- 


350 - MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


stained; the mare died at 2 a.m. on the following day, and the 
autopsy revealed pathological conditions somewhat similar 
to, but much less marked than, those described in the pre- 
vious case, 

The other three animals made a gradual recovery, and 
were soon again at work. 

It was ascertained in these three instances that arsenic 
had been administered in the form of powdered arsenious 
trioxide. The waggoner had for some time previously given 
to each of his horses every night as much as he could place 
on the end of a large pocket-knife. But on the night when 
the horses were so suddenly affected he had given an extra 
dose to each, three or four hours previous to the appearance 
of symptoms of poisoning. Probably each horse had 
received from two to three drachms. 

Several months afterwards we took the opportunity of 
examining two of the horses again ; both had an intermit- 
ting pulse, irregular in rhythm and volume. The foreman 
told us that they had never regained their previous 
strength. Their appetite was somewhat impaired, and 
when out at work they were far more easily fatigued 
than the other horses, and breathed violently when any 
additional strain was put upon them. 

After the administration of vegetable and mineral 
tonics, they made considerable improvement. Their condi- 
tion was doubtless in part or wholly due to the effects of 
the arsenious acid on the endocardium lining the left ventricle 
of the heart, and, indeed, a distinct mitral murmur could be 
heard in one of the cases. This murmur was systolic in tume. 
That arsenic, when given in solution, acts much more 
rapidly and powerfully is shown by the following record 
of nine cases of poisoning which occurred in Mr. D. Gress- 
well’s practice some years ago. 

One of the waggoners on a large farm, having obtained a 


TOXICOLOGY. | Sof 


pound and a half of powdered arsenious trioxide, stirred 1t 
up in a tub of boiled linseed gruel. This was served out 
equally to nine horses on their return from work at two 
o’clock in the afternoon. Very shortly afterwards, viz., 
about half an hour, the horses began to manifest consider- 
able uneasiness, and the owner in consequence telegraphed 
to Louth. When Mr. Gresswell arrived he found that 
eight of the horses had died; but the ninth case, which 
had an almost imperceptible pulse, recovered under careful 
treatment. 

The time that had elapsed between the administration of 
the poison and the death of the animals varied from one 
hour and fifty-five minutes to two hours and thirty minutes. 

The horse which recovered remained very debilitated for 
many weeks afterwards. 

Each horse, it is believed, received from an ounce and a 
half to two ounces of arsenious trioxide, partly in a state of 
solution, partly in a state of mechanical suspension. 

We might record many other cases, but the above will 
suffice to illustrate the main symptoms produced in the 
horse by large doses of arsenic. 

We may now say a few words concerning chronic arsenical 
poisoning in the horse. 

In February last we were called to see a valuable seven- 
year-old hunter, belonging to a gentleman residing a short 
distance from Louth. The horse had an excellent appetite, 
but was in poor condition. On examination the pulse was 
found to be fairly strong, but irregular, losing one beat in 
every six. The respirations were somewhat accelerated. 
We were informed that when galloped, even for a short 
distance, the horse breathed laboriously, and could only 
with difficulty be induced to go beyond a fair trot. 

It was ascertained that for many months previously the 
late groom had given to the horse small doses of arsenic 


352 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


at regular intervals. The symptoms presented were to be 
attributed to this practice, as the horse always enjoyed 
perfect health previously, and made much improvement 
when the groom left. 

Diagnosis.—The history of the case will aid us in forming 
a diagnosis in some instances. 

The thread-like character of the pulse, and the purging 
with extreme tenesmus in severe cases, will assist us in 
diagnosing acute arsenic poisoning from enteritis. 

Detection of Poison.—In the solid state arsenious acid 
may be detected by the following tests : 

(1.) When heated on platinum foil arsenious acid pro- 
duces a white vapour, and is entirely volatilized. 

(2.) If some of the powder be heated in a small test-tube 
it will be sublimed, and small octahedral crystals, visible to 
the naked eye or by a lens, settle on the sides of the tube. 

(3.) If arsenious acid be mixed with freshly burnt 
powdered charcoal, and heated in a small test-tube, a ring 
of shining metallic arsenic of a grey colour will be found on 
the cool portion of the tube, and an odour of garlic is per- 
ceptible. 

If this deposit be heated it will become oxidized, and 
octahedral crystals of arsenious acid formed. 

Further, the arsenious acid may be dissolved in distilled 
water and the liquid tests applied to the solution. 

In solution arsenious acid may be detected by several 
tests. The solution of it in water is colourless, almost taste- 
less, and has a very slightly acid reaction. If a few drops 
be evaporated on a glass slide and examined by the micro- 
scope, numerous minute, and mostly imperfect, octahedral 
crystals of an amorphous deposit will be seen, presenting 
triangular surfaces by reflected light. 

(1.) The ammonio-nitrate of silver (prepared by adding 
a few drops of liquor ammoniz to a solution of nitrate of 


TOXICOLOGY. 353 


- silver till the brown oxide of silver at first precipitated is 
nearly redissolved) throws down with arsenious acid a rich 
yellow deposit of arsenite of silver. 

(2.) The ammonio-sulphate of copper (formed by adding 
liquor ammonie to a solution of sulphate of copper till the 
bluish-white oxide of copper is almost redissolved) pro- 
_ duces a pale-green precipitate (arsenite of copper). 

Care must be taken not to add too much of the test in 
the first instance, otherwise its blue may overpower the 
green of the precipitate. 

(3.) Sulphuretted hydrogen water throws down a yellow ~ 
deposit of sulphide of arsenic. 

It is better, however, to use pure and well-washed sul- 
phuretted hydrogen, generated in the usual manner. 

In performing this test care must be taken that the 
liquid to be examined is not alkaline, or no precipitate will 
be produced, even though arsenic be present. 

For this reason yellow sulphide of ammonium will not 
precipitate arsenic until acidified with a mineral acid. 

There are several other processes for the detection of 
arsenic which are of great value, especially when mixed 
with foreign substances, viz.: (1) Marsh’s process; (2) 
’ Reinsch’s process ; (3) the method for detecting the poison 
In an organic mixture. 

Marsh's Test.—-This test is founded on the fact that 
arsenious acid is decomposed by nascent hydrogen, form- 
ing arseniuretted hydrogen gas, 

This vapour has the following properties : 

It burns with a bluish-white flame, and gives off a white 
smoke (arsenious acid) which has an odour of garlic. 

If a piece of glass or porcelain be held in the flame, a 
blackish metallic stain, consisting of metallic arsenic, will be 
deposited upon it. This stain might be confounded with 
one produced by antimony under similar circumstances. 

23 


354 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


Antimoniuretted hydrogen, however, does not burn with 
the odour of arseniuretted hydrogen. 

The antimonial deposit is sooty, and has not a metallic 
lustre, and is darker than that of arsenic, which is of a 
browner hue. The arsenical deposit is, moreover, readily 
dissolyed by a solution of chloride of lime (bleaching 
powder), whilst that of antimony is not affected. 

To the stain may be added a few drops of nitric acid, 
which will be found to dissolve the arsenic. 

If this be now allowed to evaporate, and the acid be 
neutralized, a few drops of nitrate of silver will give a 
brick-red precipitate of arsenate of silver. 

Marsh’s test may be carried out in the following way : 

A flask is furnished with a cork, through which pass a 
funnel and a long test-tube drawn to a point, and the 
funnel is made to reach almost to the bottom. 

Several pieces of pure metallic zinc are now introduced, 
and then some dilute sulphuric acid is passed through the 
funnel. 

In this way hydrogen is produced, and escapes by the 
test-tube. When all the air has been expelled the gas 
should be ignited as it escapes, and a piece of cool porcelain 
held over the flame. 

If there be no deposit, it is plain that neither the zinc 
nor the sulphuric acid contains arsenic. 

A portion of the suspected fluid is next introduced into 
the flask by the funnel, and the escaping gas again tested, 

Should a stain, giving the characters alluded to above, 
be produced, the fluid contains arsenic in some form or other. 

Reinsch’s Test.—The liquid suspected is boiled with one- 
sixth to one-eighth of its bulk of pure hydrochloric acid, 
and a bright slip of metallic copper is introduced. 

If arsenic be present, the copper will be coated with it 
in the form of an iron-grey deposit. 


TOXICOLOGY. 355 


The copper should be removed, washed with distilled 
water, and dried between the folds of blotting-paper cut 
into slips; it should then be placed in a dry tube and 
heated. | 

If arsenic be present, arsenious acid will be sublimed and 
deposited on the sides of the tube in the form of minute 
octahedral crystals. 

These may be dissolved in water and tested in the usual 
way. Before applying this test, the hydrochloric acid, as 
well as the copper foil, must be examined, to make sure of 
their purity. 

This is easily effected by boiling the copper with a mix- 
ture of the acid and distilled water before adding the 
suspected liquid. 

Method of Detection of Arsenic in an Organic Mixture.— 
We think the most satisfactory method of detecting arsenic 
in an organic mixture is to boil up the suspected matter 
with a large quantity of pure strong hydrochloric acid. 
The mixture is afterwards filtered, and the arsenic is pre- 
cipitated by passing a current of sulphuretted hydrogen 
through the filtrate. The arsenic is then thrown down as 
sulphide, and it may be estimated in the usual manner. 

Treatment.—The chemical antidotes which may be given 
in acute arsenical poisoning are hydrated sesquioxide of 
iron, or hydrate of magnesia. 

In acute cases, hot rugs should be applied to the abdomen. 

Stimulants may be freely given every two or three hours. 

Mucilaginous drinks of linseed and oatmeal gruel, and 
albuminous fluids, may be given with port wine or 
brandy. 

In the treatment of chronic arsenical poisoning great 
care is necessary. Vegetable and mineral tonics, especially 
iron, with good nutritious diet, should be administered 


internally. 
23-—2 


356 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


LEAD POISONING—PLUMBISM—SATURNINE | 
EPILEPSY—LEAD PALSY. 


Lead poisoning is generally confined to certain districts 
where lead-smelting is carried on, but it may also occur in 
horses from ingestion of lead paint and splinters of bullets 
which are scattered about near rifle-targets. 

The lead contained in paint, when ingested, is acted upon 
by gastric juice, and being thus converted into soluble salts, 
is absorbed into the system. 

In its pure metallic form, lead appears to be devoid of 
toxic properties; and it is well known that in the form of 
shot it is used by dealers of low principles to alleviate the 
symptoms of broken wind in horses they wish to sell. 
Some of the metal, however, is very probably converted into 
soluble salt, and being absorbed, becomes incorporated with 
the tissues. 

In some instances lead poisoning has been due to boiling 
food in vessels used for containing lead preparations. 

It is probable also that lead may be absorbed by water 
conducted through leaden pipes, and this is more especially 
likely to be the case, when the water is highly oxygenated, 
or contains organic matter. 

Polluted shallow well-waters are more dangerous in this 
respect, because they act on lead violently and continuously, 
and therefore leaden pipes should never be used. 

Lead when absorbed into the system leaves very slowly, 
and may be retained many weeks after the animal has ceased 
to ingest it in its water or food. 

Lead poisoning may be acute, when it is sometimes spoken 
of as ‘saturnine epilepsy,’ in which coma, delirium, or con- 
vulsions are manifested, or it may be chronic. 

ACUTE LEAD POISONING.—After ingestion of a large 
amount of lead, the appetite becomes impaired ; there is 


TOXICOLOGY. 357 


copious discharge of saliva; the mucous membrane of the 
conjunctiva is injected ; ahs animal is dejected, and some- 
times the tongue is protruded. 

The limbs are often drawn under the body ; the head is 
depressed ; the back is arched, and the coat may be rough 
and staring. 

In some instances the animal speedily becomes comatose, 
while in other cases he is very violent, dashing his head 
about wildly. 

Spasmodic contractions and twitchings of the muscles are 
often developed. 

The breathing is quickened and difficult, and the tem- 
perature is usually somewhat elevated. The pulse is 
sometimes accelerated, and the artery hard and the volume 
diminished, while in other instances the frequency is not 
increased and the volume is fuller. 

The bowels are usually constipated, but there may be 
diarrhoea and fcetid stools. 

Pain is often, but by no means always, manifested. 

In Wales, roaring is said to be the first symptom of lead 
poisoning in the horse, 

CHRONIC LEAD POISONING. — The symptoms of 
chronic lead poisoning are produced by the ingestion of 
lead in small quantities over an extended period of 
time. ; 

This form of poisoning is chiefly met with in the neigh- 
bourhood of smelting works, where particles of lead or its 
salts are disseminated over the grazing pastures, and also 
probably where lead enters the system through contaminated 
water-supply. 

We are not aware whether any cases proceeding from the 
latter cause have been described, but some time ago a 
suspicious case came before our notice. 

The appetite is impaired, and the coat becomes cahoalie 


308 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


rough, and staring. The bowels are irregular ; sometimes 
constipated, sometimes loose. 

In most instances a peculiar blue line is observed on the 
gums where the teeth are implanted ; but in the parts be- 
tween the teeth this line is not present. This symptom is 
mostly regarded as diagnostic, but sometimes it appears to 
be very faint or absent. 

Roaring is asymptom generally present, and is probably 
to be attributed to a paralytic condition of the nerves supply- 
ing certain muscles of the larynx (vide ‘ Roaring’). The 
muscles often twitch and contract spasmodically. 

Difficulty of locomotion and paralysis, especially of the 
hind-limbs, are also liable to become develoeeta in chronic 
poisoning by lead. 

Sometimes the joints become swollen and fue flexor 
muscles of the fore-limbs contracted, probably from paralysis 
of the extensor muscles of the limbs. | 

The animal thus appears to stand on its toes, and when 
it walks, it seems to knuckle over on the fetlocks. 

The paralysed muscles may undergo atrophic and 
degenerative changes. 

Diagnosis.—Acute lead poisoning may be mistaken — 
gastric and enteric disorders, accompanied with paralytic 
symptoms. 

In lead poisoning, however, the muscular vituhings and 
fits are more frequent and more distinctive. The tucked 
up condition of the abdomen, the discharge of saliva, and 
the grinding of the teeth are also features indicative of 
poisoning by this substance. 

In the chronic form of poisoning, which may be mistaken 
for articular rheumatism of a severe type, the paralytic 
features, the irregular recurrence of muscular twitchings 
and spasmodic contractions, as well as the ‘blue line’ when 
formed, are sufficiently indicative. 


TOXICOLOGY. 359 


In articular rheumatism, the character of the local 
swellings and the tendency to metastasis, as well as 
the acute pain and its persistence, are diagnostic symp- 
toms. | 

Morbid Anatomy.—Jn Acute Cases, the muscles are found 
both in a softened and blanched condition. The lungs and 
trachea are often inflamed. The mucous membrane of the 
alimentary tract shows alteration of structure, and is some- 
times softened and pulpy over a considerable area, owing to 
infiltration into sub-mucous layer. 

Sometimes in parts there are blood extravasations of 
variable size and extent. The muscular tissue of the heart 
is softened and flaccid. 

Ecchymosis under the endocardium is not present, 
whereas in acute arsenical poisoning, it is, we believe, almost 
imvariably found after death. 

The membranes of the brain are often congested. 

In Chronic Cases the mucous membranes of the intestines 
and stomach present patches of ecchymosis and the cecum 
and colon often show gangrenous patches. 

The swellings in connection with the joints are com- 
posed of a collection of clear fluid outside the joint 
cavity. 

Method of Detection of Lead.—The presence of lead in 
solution may be demonstrated by : 

(1.) On passing sulphuretted hydrogen through it, or on 
adding a few drops of sulphide of ammonium, a black 
precipitate is formed. 

(2.) A white precipitate results from the addition of 
liquor potassz or liquor ammonie. 

(3.) Dilute sulphuric acid gives a similar precipitate, which 
is insoluble in nitric acid. 


(4.) lodide of potassium gives a bright-yellow deposit 
(iodide of lead). 


360 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE, 


Method of Detection of Lead in the Tissues or the Urine.— 
The tissues should be dried and incinerated in a porcelain 
vessel, 

The ash should be heated with a small quantity of strong 
nitric acid, and then evaporated to dryness. The nitrate of 
lead thus formed may be dissolved out of the residue by 
water, and filtered. 

A portion of this liquid, evaporated on a slide, will yield 
erystals of nitrate of lead, which may be identified by : 

(1.) Covering them with a solution of iodide of potas- 
sium, when they acquire a brilliant yellow colour. 

(2.) Turning black on the addition of ammonium sul- 
phide. 

The remainder of the liquid, after filtration, may be 
treated with a current of sulphuretted hydrogen gas. 

A brown colour or a brown precipitate, not readily dis- 
solved by nitric acid, indicates the presence of lead. 

The metal itself may be obtained, if necessary, by plung- 
ing zinc into a portion of the acidulated liquid (Taylor on 
Poisons). 

Absorption of Lead.—Concerning the absorption of lead, 
in acute and chronic poisoning by this substance, Dr. Taylor 
says both in acute and chronic cases the metal, in some 
form, is found more or less in all the soft organs of the 
body. 

The blue line on the gums affords an instance of its de- 
position in these parts, the colour being probably due to the 
conversion of the deposited lead into sulphide. 

Lead was found by Tiedemann in the blood of poisoned 
animals ; and Professor Cozzi found it in the blood of a 
person Liisi under lead colic. | 

The urine appears to be the great channel of elimination ; 
and Taylor found traces of it in the milk of a cow poisoned 
by lead paint. 


TOXICOLOGY. 361 


Dr. Letheby, in a case of chronic poisoning, detected 
— lead in the brain, muscles, and intestines, as well as in the 
blood and serum found effused into the ventricles of the 
brain ; but none was discovered in the bile or urine. 

Dr. Inman detected it in one case in the cerebel- 
lum. 

M. L. Orfila states that he found it in the tissues as long 
as eight: months after the withdrawal of the poison ; and 
the facts connected with the slow disappearance of the blue 
line from the gums, on poisoning with this metal, render it 
probable that it may be detected after the lapse of one or 
two years. 

Treatment.—In cases where the symptoms are rapidly 
developed from the ingestion of lead from paint or bullet- 
spray, it is best to administer such agents as enter into com- 
bination with lead, forming insoluble salts. 

With this view, sulphate of magnesia, or soda with 
sulphuric acid and sulphur, may be given. 

Lead sulphate, which is the most insoluble of all the 
salts of lead, and lead sulphide are thus formed. Being 
insoluble, these salts are therefore not absorbed. 

If there be much pain, opium and hyoscyamus may be 
given also. 

Should the pain continue, woollen cloths wrung out from 
hot water should be applied to the abdomen, and hypo- 
dermic injections of morphia may be administered. 

The sulphuric acid should be repeated every three or four 
hours for two or three days, in order to prevent the solution 
of the remaining lead by the gastric juice. 

The bowels should be kept in a lax condition by the 
administration of saline purgatives for a few days, and 
diluents may be freely given. In addition, the kidneys 
may be acted upon by the addition of nitric ether, or other 
mild diuretics. 


362 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


After a day or two, tonics, such as gentian, quinine and 
nux vomica, may be regularly given. | 

In the chronic forms of lead poisoning, where this agent 
has accumulated in the system, a moderate dose of some 
purgative should be given in the first instance, and this 
should be followed up by the administration of potassium 
iodide. 

The iodide, after its absorption in the blood, combines 
with the lead and forms iodide of lead, which, re-enter- 
ing the circulation, is eliminated with the urine. 

The dose of iodide should be small at first, as when it 
combines with the lead the phenomena of acute lead poi- 
soning may come on, from the large amount of iodide of 
lead formed and passed into the circulation. 

In some cases of valuable horses, if paralytic symptoms 
remain, galvanism may be tried, as in man. 

In all cases of lead poisoning it is of first importance 
that the animals be moved from the source whence this 
agent is derived. 


ANTIMONY POISONING. 


Antimony is occasionally administered to the horse in the 
form of tartar emetic, or as chloride or butter of antimony. 
These salts are not nearly so frequently given as they once 
were, and the practice, we believe, is now considerably on 
the decrease. 

The symptoms are those of an irritant rather than of a 
corrosive poison. 

There are frequent attempts at vomition, and in some 
cases this is complete. 

In severe cases the pulse becomes weak and fluttering, 
and almost or quite imperceptible. 


TOXICOLOGY. 363 


There is great prostration and gradual loss of conscious- 
ness in severe cases, followed by death. 


YEW-TREE FOLIAGE. 


Many instances of death from browsing on the leaves of 
the yew-tree (Taxus Baccata) have been recorded in the 
horse. 

After death, which in some cases took place from two to 
three hours after the ingestion of the foliage, the stomachs 
were found contracted and inflamed. 

Method of Detection—Fragments of the leaves or the 
berries may be found in the stomach after death. 

The apex of the leaf of the yew is not so pointed as 
that of the savin; and the yew-leaf does not possess the 
peculiar cdour of savin when rubbed. 

Yew-berries are of a bright red colour, and green at the 
top, allowing a hard brown kernel to be seen. 

The juice, which reddens blue litmus paper, has a 
nauseous sweetish taste. 

Treatment.—-The method of treatment to be adopted is 
the internal administration of oleaginous purgatives and 
diffusive stimulants, such as the aromatic spirit of ammonia 
and nitric ether in linseed gruel or water. 


CORROSIVE SUBLIMATE 


Is sometimes given in injurious doses, causing loss of 
appetite, salivation, pawing, looking at the flanks, rolling, 
profuse perspiration, rapid, weak, thready pulse, violent 
purging, tenesmus, convulsions, and death, 


364 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


After death the stomach is much inflamed, and in patches 
intensely so. | 

The whole intestine is likewise inflamed, and gangrenous 
in patches. 

Antidotes, as white of egg mixed with water, or thick 
starch or arrowroot, may be given. 


HELLEBORE. 


Black hellebore, or the Christmas rose, and white hellebore, 
or veratrum album, are both poisonous when administered 
in large doses. 

The action of the latter is similar to that of the former, 
but is more irritant. 

Hellebore is occasionally administered by grooms to horses 
under their charge, as they suppose it to have a valuable 
alterative effect. 

Symptoms.—In a case recently under treatment by us, 
two drachms of the pulverised root of the white hellebore 
were given by the groom to a carriage horse. 

When called in, the head of the animal was protruded ; 
the pulse was much accelerated, and varied from 90 to 100 
beats per minute ; the respirations were considerably quick- 
ened ; the extremities were deathly cold, and there was 
marked nausea, and frequent attempts at vomition. The 
appetite was completely lost for forty-eight hours, after 
which it gradually returned, and the animal made a slow, 
but complete recovery. 

The late Mr. D. Gresswell, who had a large number of 
cases of poisoning by hellebore under treatment at different 
times, observed complete vomition in some instances, and 
was of opinion that if given in large doses this drug gene- 
rally causes actual sickness. 


TOXICOLOGY. — 365 


Method of Detection of Hellebore.—Powdered white helle- 
bore-root has a reddish-brown colour resembling jalap. 

- Nitric acid turns it a red colour, rapidly passing to a 
dark brown. 

Iodine water gives it a bluish-grey tint, which is only 
slowly brought out. Sulphuric acid turns the powder to a 
brown-black. 

Diagnosis.—Hellebore poisoning is very frequently mis- 
taken for choking by the uninitiated ; but the history of 
the case, when that is to be obtained, and the character of 
pulse, will at once clear up any doubts. 

Treatment.—A good moderate dose of some aperient 
medicine should be given in the first place, and this should 
be quickly followed up by the administration of stimulants _ 
and tonics. 

The diet should be moist and nutritious. 

After recovering from the effects of the poison, tonics 
should be administered for a week or two. 


OPIUM. 


Opium poisoning is of rare occurrence in the horse. 

This drug, however, is sometimes administered by dealers 
and others in order to prevent kicking and restiveness in 
horses they wish to sell. 

A few weeks ago we were called in to see a black mare, 
aged eight years, to which the owner had administered one 
ounce and a half of Turkey opium. 

When called in, on the day following the administration 
of the drug, the mare was found to be in a very dull, de- 
jected condition, and the pulse was very feeble and soft, 
and the artery very compressible. The number of beats 
was 84 per minute, and the temperature reached 102°5”. 


366 MANUAL OF EQUINE MEDICINE. 


The pupils were contracted, and there was total loss of 
appetite, the mare refusing all food and drink. . The breath- 
ing was slow, but not stertorous, and the nasal mucous mem- 
brane was of a dark brownish hue. ) | 

The symptoms remained unabated for three days, during 
which time the animal continually moved round and round 
in the box. On the fourth day the pulse began to regain 
vigour ; but recovery was not complete before the lapse of 
a week. 


SAVIN 


Is sometimes given by grooms and others, with the idea of 
improving the condition, and has often caused death. 

It is said that the presence of savin can best be detected 
in the stomach of the horse by the black currant-leaf-like 
smell of the contents when boiled in a little water or beaten 
up in a mortar. 

When seen under the microscope, the leaves have 
sharply acuminated apices. 


BRYONY. 


Bryony (Lryonica dioica) is often given by horse-breakers 
to young horses, with the idea of improving the condition. 

Although this drug excites the animal, and for a time is 
said to improve its condition, it is nevertheless decidedly 
poisonous ; and when the transient effects are over, depres- 
sion of energy and corresponding loss of condition follow. 


WATER DROP-WORT. 


The water drop-wort (Qnanthe crocata) is a plant com- 
monly growing in ditches and marshy localities, This 


TOXICOLOGY. 367 


plant is not often eaten by horses ; but brood mares, with 
appetites vitiated by their being in foal, have been poisoned 
by eating it. 

As antidotes, vinegar and gruel are recommended, 


EUPHORBIUM. 


Euphorbium, or spurge, is one of the ingredients in the 
farrier’s blisters, and has caused many deaths from the 
great irritation which it has set up. 


CANTHARIDES. 


Cantharides, or the Spanish fly, is sometimes administered 
as an excitant to the horse and mare at the breeding season, 
and, owing to the large amount given, has been the cause of 
many deaths. 

It-is said that a drachm, and, indeed, sometimes a much 
less amount, will kill almost any horse. 

The drug, which is a purely irritant poison, is admi- 
nistered in the pulverized condition in the form of a ball, 
or as the tincture. 

When given asa ball, some portions of the fly may often 
be detected as little glittering particles which are apparent 
on the sides of the feces in hot water. 

In cases where cantharides has been inadvertently or 
wilfully administered in too large doses, oily and demulcent 
liquids may be given in large quantities. 


IND ae 


ABDOMINAL breathing, 125 
form of influenza, 52 
Abscess, acute, formation of, 18 
hepatic, 248 
post-pharyngeal, 206 
pyemic, 83 
renal, 267 
Absorbents, inflammation of the, 106 
Acerotherium, 3 
Accumulations in the bowels, a cause of obstruction, 227 
Achorion Schénleinii, 9, 44 
Acid, benzoic, 259 
hippuric, 259 
uric, 258 
Acute abscess, formation of, 18 
bronchitis, 142 
catarrh, 137 
catarrhal laryngitis, 140 
endocarditis, 186 
farcy, 59 
gastritis, 213 
indigestion, 210 
metritis, 274 
pericarditis, 197 
peritonitis, 239 
pharyngeal catarrh, 205 
pleurisy, 172 
pneumonia, 154 
Actinomyces, 44 
Actinomycosis, 44 
Adenoid tissue, tumours in spleen composed of, 255 
Adventitious substances in the brain and cranial cavity, 296 
in mechanical bronchitis, 145 
Adynamic fever, 34 
Age, its influence on disease, 7 
Air, vitiated supply of, 8 


INDEX. 369 


Aitken on the differences between cerebral and meningeal inflamma- 
tion, 290 
Albumen in urine, 262 
Albuminous degeneration, 31 
Alcohol in pyemia, 84 
Alimentary system, diseases of, 201 
Aloes, necessity for securing best qualities of, 226 
Ammonium carbonate to be avoided in azoturia, 120 
salts to be avoided in purpura, 93 
Amphistoma Collinsii and Stanleyi, 333 
Amphistomide, 332 
Amyl nitrite in asthma, 164 
Amyloid degeneration, 31 
of the liver, 251 
of the kidneys, 268 
Anemia, cerebral, 302 
Anesthesia, 285 
Analysis of renal calculi, 269 
of urine of the horse, 257 
Anasarca, 27 
Anchitherium, 3 
Aneurism, verminous, 339 
Angina pectoris, 197 
Anguillulide, 337 
Animal heat, 32 
parasites, 332 
a cause of disease, 9 
Anorexia in fever, 34 
Anthracoid angina, 76 
diseases, 75 
Anthrax, 69 
bacillus of, 41, 70 
causes of, 70 
definition of, 70 
distribution of, 70 
historical review of, 69 
inoculation for prevention of, 42, 72 
modes of propagation of, 71 
morbid anatomy of, 76 
prophylaxis of, 79 
symptoms of, 72 
treatment of, 78 
Antimony, poisoning by, 362 
Antiseptic treatment of anthrax, 79 
equinia, 62 
surra, 86 
Aortic obstruction, 193 
regurgitation, 193 
Apoplectic enteritis, 230 
Apoplexy, cerebral, 303 
pulmonary, 149 


24 


370 INDEX. 


Apoplexy, splenic, 41 
Artiodactyla, 1 
Arsenic in broken wind, 171 
in diabetes, 115 
poisoning by, 346 
symptoms and post-mortem appearances of, 347 
treatment of, 355 
tests for, 352 
Arthritic rheumatism, 101 
Articular rheumatism, acute, 101 
chronic, 108 
Ascaride, 337 
Ascaris megalocephala, 337 
Ascites, etiology of, 241 
morbid anatomy and symptoms of, 242 
treatment of, 243 
Asthenic fever, 34 
Asthma, etiology of, 164 
symptoms and treatment of, 165 
Astier, germ theory started by, 38 
Atelectasis, 146 
Athelstan, horses in the reign of, 5 
Atmospheric influences in the causation of disease, 8 
Atrophy, causes of, 29 
definition of, 28 
numerical, 28 
of the heart, 190 
simple, 28 
Audouin, discovery of the nature of muscardine by, 37 
Auscultation in cardiac diseases, 177 
pleurisy, 173 
pneumonia, 160 
respiratory diseases, 126 
of the larynx, 126 
Azoturia, definition of, 116 
diagnosis of, 119 
etiology of, 116 
morbid anatomy of, 119 
pilocarpin in, 120 
prognosis of, 118 
symptoms of, 117 
treatment of, 119 
urine in, 116, 118 


Bacillus anthracis, artificial cultivation and life-history of, 41, 42 
septicemia, 40 
tuberculosis, 40 
Bacteria, 38 
conditions of life of, 39 
food of, 39 
temperature necessary for life of, 40 


INDEX. 


3 


Bacterium termo, 23 
Bael fruit in diarrhoea, 222 
Bassi on the germ theory, 37 
Benzoic acid, 259 
Bile, excess of, in the blood, a cause of jaundice, 252 
interference with the metamorphosis of, 255 
suppression of secretion of, 253 
Bile-acids, tests for, 253 
Bile-pigments, tests for, 253 
Biliary congestion, 245 
Bilious influenza, 246 
Birds, anthrax affecting, 70 
Bladder, diseases of, 270 
hemorrhage from, 261 
inflammation of, 270 
Blastomycetes, 43 
Blain on broken-winded cough, 169 
Bleeding in enteritis, 236 
interstitial hepatitis, 247 
nephritis, 267 
pleurisy, 176 
pneumonia, 162 
Blisters in pneumonia, 164 
Blood in the urine, 261 
Blood-casts, 262 
Bloody flux (see Dysentery), 236 
Bots, 344 
Boiling, influence of, on bacteria, 40 
Bowels, diseases of, 217-239 
Brain, adventitious substances in the, 296 
anemia of the, 302 
chronic diseases of the, 292 
diseases of the, 288 
exostoses in connection with the, 296 
functions of the, 280, 281 
- inflammation of the, 288 
sclerosis of the, 312 
softening of the, 292 
tumours of the, 296 
Breathing, abdominal, 125 
bronchial, 129 
exaggerated, 129 
in broken wind, 166 
quickened, 160 
thoracic, 240 
Broken wind, 166 
- definition and etiology of, 166 
morbid anatomy of, 170 
symptoms of, 169 
treatment of, 171 
Bronchi, diseases of, 142 


1 


ais INDEX. ° 


Bronchial breathing, 129 
in pneumonia, 161 
Bronchitis, acute catarrhal, 142 
definition and etiology of, 142 
morbid anatomy of, 145 
physical signs of, 148 
symptoms of, 143 
treatment of, 147 
varieties of, 143 
chronic, 148 
symptoms of, 148 
treatment of, 149 
mechanical, 145 - 
secondary, 145 
Broncho-pneumonia, 154 
Bronze age, horses of the, 4 
Brownian movement of bacteria, 39 
Bryony, poisoning by, 366 
Bursatee, 110 
definition, distribution and etiology of, 110 
F.. Smith on, 44 
morbid anatomy of, 112 
treatment of, 113 


Calcareous degeneration, 32 

Calcification of the heart, 195 

Calcium chloride as a disinfectant in glanders, 62 
sulphide in purpura, 93 

Calculi, biliary, in jaundice, 252 
renal, 268, 269 
ureteral, 268 


Camel, 1 

Cancer of the brain, 298 
liver, 252 
spinal cord, 309 
spleen, 355 


Cantharides, a cause of cystitis, 270 
poisoning by, 367 
Capillary bronchitis, 142 
Carbolic acid in acute metritis, 276 
anthrax, 78 
bursatee, 1138 
pyemia, 84 
rabies, 110 
surra, 86 
Cardiac diseases, 178 
enlargement, 189 
impulse, 177 
murmurs, 181-183 
sounds, 180 
Carditis (myocarditis), 188 


INDEX. 373 


Catarrh, acute pharyngeal, symptoms and treatment of, 205 
chronic nasal, 139 
common or acute, 137 
definition and etiology of, 137 
symptoms and treatment of, 138 
Catarrhal stomatitis, 203 
Causes of diseases, 7 
Cephalic diseases, 288 
Cerebellum, functions of, 281 
Cerebral anemia, 302 
congestion or hyperemia, 300 
symptoms and morbid anatomy of, 
301 
treatment of, 302 
diseases, 288 
embolism and thrombosis, 302 
hemorrhage, 303 
causes of, 303 
morbid anatomy of, 304 
symptoms of, 303 
treatment of, 306 
inflammation, acute, 288 
. causes of, 288 
morbid anatomy of, 290 
symptoms of, 288 
treatment of, 291 
‘meningitis, 292 
softening, 292 
tumours, 296 
Cerebritis, 288 
Cerebro-spinal fever, 67 
causes of, 67 
morbid anatomy of, 68 
symptoms of, 67 
treatment of, 68 
system, functions of, 279 
Cestoda or tapeworms, 333 
Cetacea, 1 
Changes in inflamed tissues, 15 
Charbon, 69 
Cheiracanthide, 337 
Chest, physical examination of, 33 
Chlorate of potassium in purpura, 93 
scarlatina, 97 
Chloride of calcium as a disinfectant in glanders, 62 
- Cholesterin, 297 
Chorea, causes and definition of, 314 
morbid anatomy and symptoms of, 315 
treatment of, 316 
Choreic movements, 283 
Choroid plexus, tumours of, 296 


* 


374 INDEX. 


Chronic bronchitis, 148 
treatment of, 149 
diseases of the brain, 292 
heart, 191 
gastritis, 215 
hepatitis, 249 
indigestion, 212 
nasal catarrh, 139 
rheumatism, 103 
spinal inflammation, 306 
valvular affections, 191 
Circulatory system, diseases of, 177 
Cirrhosis of the liver, 249 
etiology, morbid anatomy, and symptoms of, 249 
treatment of, 250 
Classification of disease, 10 
Clinical features of hepatic disease, 244 
Clonic spasms, 283 
Coenurus cerebralis, 336 
Cohn on the multiplication of bacteria, 39 
Cohnheim on inflammation, 15 
Cold, action of, in causing catarrh, 137 
enteritis, 231 
pleurisy, 173 
pneumonia, 154 
Colic, etiology of, 223 
flatulent, 225 
morbid anatomy of, 225 
spasmodic, 224 
symptoms of, 224 
treatment of, 226 
true, 222 
varieties of, 222 
Colin, table of weight of encephalon and spinal cord by, 281 
Collapse, 35 
Colloid degeneration, 30 
Colon, puncture of the, 227 
rupture of the, 229 
Colour as a cause of disease, 8 
Colouring matter of urine, 259 
Coma, 286 
Comparative pathology in diseases of the liver, 245 
Concentric hypertrophy of the heart, 189 
Concretions, intestinal, 227 
Condy’s fluid, 276 
Congestion, 11 
active, 11 
mechanical or venous, 11 
causes and results of, 12 
of the brain, 300 
lungs, 149 


INDEX. a70 


Congestion of the lungs, etiology of, 149 
morbid anatomy of, 152 
prognosis of, 151 
symptoms of, 150 
treatment of, 153 
varieties of, 149 
kidneys, 263 
causes and treatment of, 264 
Congestive enteritis, 230 
Constipation, 217 
Constriction, murmurs of, 183 
of the aortic orifice, 193 
mitral orifice, 193 
Contagious diseases, definition of, 41 
Contagio-miasmatic, definition of, 41 
Contagium, nature of, 37 
Convulsions, 283 
Cord, diseases of, 304 
Corpora amylacea, 297 
Corrigan’s pulse, 194 
Corrosive sublimate, poisoning by, 363 
Coryza, 137 
Cough, definition of, 132 
of broken wind, 169 
resonance, 131 
varieties of, 1382 
Counter-irritation in pleurisy, 177 
pneumonia, 164 
Cranium, adventitious growths in connexion with, 296 
Creatin, 259 
Crepitation, cause of, 130 
pulmonary, 130, 160 
Crisis in fever, 35 
Cromwell, horses introduced from Morocco by, 5 
Cryptogenetic inflammation, 21 
Cucullanide, 337 
Cyanosis, 186 
Cysticercus, 335 
fistularis, 337 
Cystitis, 270 


Darwin on aboriginal horses, 4 
Death, 36 
beginning at the brain, heart, and lungs, 36 
Deer, 1 
Defervescence of fever, 35 
of pneumonia, 160 
Degeneration, albuminoid, amyloid, or lardaceous, 31 
calcareous, 32 
colloid, 30 
fatty, 30 


376 INDEX. 


Degeneration, mucoid, 30 
pigmentary, 32 
of the heart, 194 
Delirium, 33 
Deposits in the urine, 261 
Diabetes, 113 
insipidus, causes and symptoms of, 114 
treatment of, 115 
mellitus, causes of, 115 
symptoms and treatment of, 116 
Diagnosis of disease, 9 
Diarrhea, 219 
causes of, 219 
symptoms of, 220 
treatment of, 220 
Diarrhea of the young, causes, morbid anatomy, and symptoms of, 220 
treatment of, 222 
Diathesis, influence of, in the causation of disease, 8 
rheumatic, 101 
Diet, influence of, in causing broken wind, 166 
disease of the alimentary canal, 201 
the production of disease, 8 
Difficulty of respiration, 124 
Diffuse suppuration, 19 
Digestive organs, diseases of, 201 
Digitalis in broken wind, 172 
Dilatation of the heart, 189 
morbid anatomy of, 190 
symptoms of, 189 
Diminished cardiac power, 191 
resonance of the chest, 126 
Diphtheritic inflammation, 21 
Disease, causes of, 7 
classification of, 10 
effect of previous, 8 
germs of, account of, 37 
signs of, 9 
Diseases of the alimentary tract, 201 
bladder, 270 
bowels, 217 
brain, 288 
bronchi, 142 Wt 
circulatory system, 179 
digestive organs, 201 
infective, 41 
kidneys, 256 
larynx, 140 
liver, 244 
mouth and throat, 202 
nervous system, 278 
cesophagus, 207 


INDEX. Sit 


Diseases of the ovaries, 276 
parotid gland, 204 
peritoneum, 238 
reproductory system, 373 
respiratory system, 124 
spinal cord, 304 
spleen, 254 
stomach, 208 
tongue, 204 
valves of the heart, 191 
Distemper, 49 
Distoma hepatica, 332 
Diuresis, 113 
Dropsical effusion, 27 
Dropsy, active, 28 
- causes of, 27 
general, 28 
local, 27 
of the abdomen, 241 
passive, 28 
Dry-leather creaking in pleurisy, 173 
Dysesthesia, 285 
Dysentery, causes and definition of, 236 
morbid anatomy of, 238 
symptoms of, 237 
treatment of, 238 
Dyspepsia, acute, 210 
chronic, 212 
Dyspneea, causes of, 124 
in asthma, 164 
in broken wind, 166 


Eccentric atrophy of the heart, 191 
hypertrophy of the heart, 189 
Echinococcus veterinorum, 335 
Effects of overfeeding, 210 
Elephantiasis fibroma, 108 
Embolism, 26 
capillary, 26 
cerebral, 302 
definition of, 25 
results of, 25 
Embryo of the echinococcus, 336 
Emesis, 209 
Emphysema, interlobular, 171 
vesicular, 171 
Emprosthotonos, 324 
Empyemia, 175 
Encephalitis, causes of, 288 
morbid anatomy of, 290 
symptoms of, 288 


378 INDEX. 


Encephalitis, treatment of, 291 
Endocardial sounds, 182 
Endocarditis, acute, 186 
etiology of, 186 
morbid anatomy of, 187 
sequele, symptoms of, 186 
treatment of, 188 
Endo-pericarditis, 186 
Enlargement of the heart, 189 
Enteritis, bleeding in, 236 
causes of, 230 
definition of, 230 
symptoms of, 231 
treatment of, 234 
varieties of, 230 
Entozoa, 332 
Enzootic paraplegia, 329 
Eocene strata, 3 
Epidemic catarrhal fever, 49 
Epilepsy, 316 
definition, morbid anatomy, and pathology of, 316 
symptoms of, 318 
treatment of, 318 
Epistaxis, 27 
Epizootic catarrhal fever, 49 
cellulitis, 51 
Equinia, 54 
Equine variola, 62 
Ergot of rye in cerebro-spinal fever, 69 
in inflammation of the spinal cord, 308 
in purpura hemorrhagica, 93 
Erysipelas, 64 
definition and etiology of, 64 
treatment of, 66 
varieties of, 64 
Escaped blood-cells, 14 
Etiology, 7 
Kuphorbium, or spurge, poisoning by, 367 
Exocardial murmurs, 183 
Exostoses in connection with the brain, 296 
iixtractives in the urine, 259 
Extrinsic causes of disease, 8 
Exudation of fluid and blood-cells in inflammation, 13 
of lymph in fibrinous inflammation, 17 


Fainting, 35 
Farcy, acute, definition and etiology of, 58 
symptoms of, 59 
treatment of, 62 
chronic, 60 
Fasciola hepatica, 332 


INDEX. 379 


Fatty, degeneration, 30 
of the heart, 194 
of the laryngeal muscles, 134 
liver, 250 

infiltration, 30 
Favus, fungus of, 44 
Febricula, 45 
Fermentation test for sugar in the urine, 263 
Ferrier on the functions of the brain, 280 
Fever, asthenic, 34 

cerebro-spinal, 67 

continuous, 34 

emaciation of, 34 

hectic, 35 

inflammatory, 34 

intermittent, 34 

malignant, 34 

pulse in, 34 

pyogenic, 46 

rheumatic, 101 

scarlet, 94 

simple, definition, symptoms, and treatment of, 45 

specific, 34 

stages of, 35 

splenic, 42 

. termination of, 35 

Fibrinous inflammation, 16 
Fibroid growths in connection with the heart, 196 
Fibroma of the brain, 298 
Filaride, 337 
Filaria lachrymalis, 343 

papillosa, 343 

sanguinis equi, 344 
Flat worms, vide Cestoda, or Tape-worms. 
Flatulence, 208 
Flatulent colic, causes and symptoms of, 225 

treatment of, 226 
Fleming, Dr., on anthrax, 73 
hydrocephalus, 293 

Flukes, 332 
Flux, bloody, 236 
Formation of thrombi, 23 
Friction sounds in pleurisy, 174 
Function impaired in inflammation, 15 
Functional derangement of brain a cause of staggers, 286 
Fiirstenberg, analysis of renal calculi by, 269 


Gadfly, the, 344 

Galvanism in lead-poisoning, 362 
roaring, 137 

Gamgee on broken wind, 166 


380 ee | INDEX. 


Gangrene of the lung, 158 
Gastritis, acute, 213 
causes of, 213 
Gastritis, acute, morbid anatomy, symptoms, and treatment of, 214 
chronic, 215 
symptoms and treatment of, 215 
_ Gastrodiscus sonsinonis, 333 
Gastrophilus equi, 344 
hemorrhoidalis, 345 
nasalis, 345 
General paralysis, 284 
pathology, 11-36 
symptoms of cardiac disease, 184 
hydrocephalus, 294 
Germ theory, 35 
Gerlach on anthrax, 70 
Giraffe, 1 
Glanders, 54 
causes and contagion of, 55 
chronic, 57 
definition of, 54 
distribution of, 55 
incubation of, 55 
morbid anatomy of, 60 
Glanders, pulmonary, 57 
symptoms of acute, 55 
chronic, 57 
treatment of, 60 
Glands, absorbent, disease of, 106 
Glans penis, condition of, in maladie du coit, 87 
Glioma, 298 
Glossanthrax, 75 
morbid anatomy and treatment of, 78 
Glossitis, causes and treatment of, 204 
Glottis, ceedema of, 141 
Glycogen, or glycoll, 244 
Glycosuria, 215 
Gordiide, 337 
Gorged stomach, 210 
causes and symptoms of, 210 
treatment of, 211 
Granulation tissue, 17 
Granulomata, infective, 22 
Grass staggers, definition, etiology, and nature of, 329 
symptoms of, 330 
morbid anatomy and treatment of, 331 
Green, Dr., on pyzemia and septicemia, 80, 81 
Gresswell, C., on heart disease, 186 
Gresswell, D., on hydrocephalus, 293 
forms of enteritis, 230 
the treatment of anthrax, 79 


INDEX. 


Grey matter of the brain and cord, 278 

Grey tubercle, 104 

Grunting, 131 

Giinther, Herr, on the treatment of roaring, 137 
Gyrodactylide, 332 


Heematemesis, 27 
Hematuria, 27, 261 
_Hemoptysis, 151 
Hemorrhage, 26 
cerebral, 303 
into the lungs, 151 
into the intestinal canal, 27 
spinal, 309 
Health sounds, changes in the chest, in disease, 127 
Heart, adventitious growths in connection with, 180, 181 
affections of the valves of the, 192 
atrophy of the, 190 
auscultation of the, 180 
calcification of the, 195 
chronic diseases of the, 192 
fatty changes of the, 194 
general symptoms and forms of disease of, 184, 185 
hypertrophy of, 189 
impulse of, 179, 180 
inflammation of, 188 
- palpitation of, 184 
physical examination of, 179, 184 
rupture of, 195 
sounds of, in disease, 182 
health, 180 
valvular diseases of, 192 
Heat, in inflammation, 15 
influence of, on bacteria, 40 
Hectic fever, 35 
Hellebore, poisoning by, 364 
diagnosis and treatment of, 365 
Hemiplegia, 284 
Hepatitis, 248 
causes and symptoms, 249 
chronic, 249 
varieties of, 248 
Hepatization, grey, 156 
red, 156 
Heredity, influence of, in the production of disease, 7 


causation of broken wind, 168 


roaring, 135 
Hipparion, characteristics of, 3 
Hippopotamus, 1 
Hippuric acid, 259 
Historical review of anthrax, 69 


382 INDEX. 


Historical review of influenza, 50 
glanders, 54 
Hob-nailed liver, 249 
Horse, ancient history of the, 4 
pox, 62 
sickness of the Cape, 76 
zoological position of the, 2 
Hydatid tumours of the heart, 196 
liver, 251 
kidneys, 268 
Hydrocephalus, 292 
symptoms of, 293 
morbid anatomy of, 295 
treatment of, 296 
Hydro-pericardium, 200 
Hydrophobia, inoculation for prevention of, 43 
Hydrothorax, 174 
Hyperemia (see Congestion), 11, 12 
Hypertrophy, compensatory, 28 
numerical and simple, 28 
of the heart, 189 
Hyphomycetes, 43 
Hysteria, 273 


Icterus, causes and definition of, 252 
symptoms of, 253 
treatment of, 254 
Idiopathic bronchitis, 143 
erysipelas, 64 
tetanus, 319 
Impaction, gastric, 210 
intestinal, 227 
of calculi in the bile-duct, 252 
ureters, 270 
Imperfect ventilation, 8 
Indigestion, acute, 210 
causes and symptoms of, 210 
treatment of, 211 
chronic, causes of, 212 
symptoms and treatment of, 215 
Infection, 37 
Infective diseases, 41 
granulomata, 22 
inflammation, 23 
Infiltration, 29 
calcareous, 32 
fatty, 30 
pigmentary, 32 
Inflammation, 13, 23 
changes of blood-vessels in, 13 
clinical signs of, 15 


INDEX. 


Inflammation, cryptogenetic, 21 
definition of, 13 
diphtheritic, 21 
essential lesions of, 15 
etiology of, 21 
fibrinous, 16 
hemorrhage, 20 
infective, 23 
interstitial, 17 
new growths in, 21 
of the bladder, 270 
bowels, 230 
bronchi, 142 
brain, 288 
cord and its membranes, 304 
heart, 186 
kidneys, 264 
larynx, 140 
liver, 248 
lungs, 154 
mouth, 202 
cesophagus, 207 
pericardium, 197 
peritoneum, 239 
pleura, 172 
stomach, 213 
throat, 205 
tongue, 204 
womb, 274 
parenchymatous, 17 
productive, 17 
septic, 22 
serous, 16 
simple or traumatic, 20 
specific, 23 
suppurative, 17 
terminations of, 20 
varieties of, 16 
Inflammatory fever, 34 
Influence of age in the causation of disease, 7 
breed in the causation of disease, 7 
cold in the causation of pneumonia, 154 
heredity in the causation of disease, 7 
Influences, atmospheric and telluric, 8 
Influenza, 49, 54 
causes of, 50 
complications of, 52 
definition and distribution of, 49 
forms of, 52 
historical review of, 49 
immunity from, 53 


383 


384 INDEX. 


Influenza, intestinal form of, 52 
morbid anatomy of, 53 
pulmonary form of, 52 
rheumatic form of, 53 
sequele and symptoms of, 50 
synonyms of, 49 
treatment of, 53 

Incontinence of urine, 272 

Indigestion, acute, 210 

chronic, 212 

Inoculation for anthrax, 42 

hydrophobia, 43 

Inspection of the chest, 124 

Tnsensibility, 286 

Inspiration, defective, 125 

Inspiratory dyspneea, 125 

Interlobular emphysema, 171 

Intermittence of the heart, 185 

Interstitial hepatitis, 245 

Intestinal colic, 222. | 
concretions, 231 
diseases, 217 
hernia, 228 
inflammation, 230 
intussusception, 228 
obstruction, 227 
strangulation, 228 
twists, 228 
worms, a cause of colic, 223 

Intrinsic causes of disease, 7 

Introductory, 1—6 

Intussusception, 231 

Todine in glanders, 62 

fpecacuanha in dysentery, 238 

Irregularity of the heart, 185 

Ischuria, 265 


Jaundice, causes of, 252 
symptoms of, 253 
treatment of, 254 

Jugular vein, reflux pulsation in, 193 


Kidneys, congestion of the, 263 
general remarks on the diseases of the, 260 
inflammation of the, 264 
causes of, 265 
morbid anatomy of, 266 
symptoms of, 265 
treatment of, 267 
suppuration of, and abscess in the, 264 


INDEX. 385 


King John, improvements of the breeds of horses by, 5 
King Edward - eT ek 
Koch, on pyemia and septicemia, 40, "80 


Lactic acid, 259 
Lameness in liver disease, 245 
Lardaceous degeneration, 31 
of the liver, 251 
of the kidneys, 268 
Laryngeal diseases, 140 
muscles, fatty degeneration of, 134 
nerves, recurrent, 134 
sounds, 126 
Laryngitis, acute, 140 
symptoms of, 140 
treatment of, 141 
cedematous, 140 
Larynx, auscultation of, 126 
Lead, absorption of, 360 
palsy, 356 
poisoning, acute, 356 
chronic, 357 
tests for, 359 
treatment of, 361 
Leucin, 244 
Leucocythemia, 255 
Leuret on the functions of the cerebellum, 281 
Life-history of a tapeworm, 333 
Lime in the water in Oxaluria, 121 
Liquor puris, 19 
Liver, amyloid or lardaceous changes in the, 251 
chronic diseases of, 249 
cirrhosis of, 249 
etiology, morbid anatomy, and symptoms of, 249 
treatment of, 250 
clinical features of diseases of the, 244 
congestion of the, 245 
symptoms of, 246 
treatment of, 247 
diseases of the, 244 
fatty changes of the, 250 
hydatids in the, 251 
inflammation of, 248 
pigmentary changes i in the, 246 
rupture of the, 247 
Lobar pneumonia, 154 
Lobelia in asthma, 165 
Lobular pneumonia, 154 
Local paralysis, 285 
Lockjaw, 319 
etiology and general pathology of, 319 
morbid anatomy of, 326 


386 INDEX. 


Lockjaw, symptoms of, 325 
treatment of, 327 
varieties of, 323 
Loodianah disease, 76 
Lophodon, 2 
Lumbricoid worms, 337 
Lungs, abscess of the, 158 
auscultation of the, 126, 160 
congestion of, 149 
death beginning at the, 36 
diseases of the, 149 
emphysema of the, 171 
engorgement of the, 156 
gangrene of the, 158 
hemorrhage into the, 151 
hepatization of the, 156 
inflammation of the, 154 
physical examination of the, 126 
suppuration of the, 158 
Lymph, exuded in pleurisy, 175 
formed in fibrinous inflammation, 16 
Lymphangitis, 106 
causes of, 106 
complications of, 108 
definition of, 106 
morbid anatomy of, 109 
prognosis of, 108 
symptoms of, 107 
treatment of, 109 
Lymphadenoma of the spleen, 255 
Lymphatics, diseases of the, 106 
Lymphoid growths in the liver, 252 
Lysis, 35 


Macraucheniade, 3 
Mad staggers, 288 
Madura foot of India, 44 
Maladie du coit, 86 
causes of, 86 
morbid anatomy of, 89 
symptoms of the benign form, 86 
malignant form, 87 
treatment of, 89 
varieties of, 86 
Malignant growths in the liver, 252 
pustule in man, treated by sulphite of soda, 79 
Mammals, 1 
Mechanical bronchitis, 145 
causes of disease, 8 
congestion, 11 
Megrims, causes of, 300 


' INDEX. 387 


Megrims, morbid anatomy and symptoms of, 301 
treatment of, 302 
Melanosis of the brain and meninges, 298 
liver, 252 
spleen, 255 
Meningitis, cerebral, 288 
cerebro-spinal, 67 
chronic cerebral, 292 
spinal, 304 
Menorrhagia, 27 
Mensuration of the chest, 125 
Metallic tinkling, 131 
Metamorphosis, varieties of, 30 
fatty, of the heart, 195 
fatty, of the liver, 250 
Metastasis in rheumatic fever, 102 
Metastatic abscesses, 82 
Methyl-aniline violet, 31 
Metritis, acute, 274 
Miasmatic diseases, definition of, 41 
Milk suppressed in acute metritis, 275 
Miocene strata, 3 
Miohippus, 3 
Mitral murmurs, 192 
obstruction, 192 
regurgitation, 193 
Modes of death, 36 
Moist and dry cough, 132 
sounds, 130 
Monostomide, 332 
Morbid growths of the brain, 298 
liver, 251 
kidneys, 268 
peritoneum, 243 
spleen, 255 
spinal cord, 309 
Morfondure, 49 
Motor paralysis, 283 
Moulds, 43 
Mouth, diseases of the, 202 
Mucoid degeneration, 30 
Mucous membranes, coloured in jaundice, 253 
Mucus in the urine, 263 
Murmur, respiratory, 126 
Murmurs, aortic, 193 
cardiac, 182 
mitral, 192 
organic, 182 
pericardial, 183 
ventricular diastolic, 183 
systolic, 182 
25—2 


388 INDEX. 


Muscardine disease of silkworms, 38 
Muscular rheumatism, 104 

atrophy of the larynx, 35 
Myelitis, acute, 304 
Myocarditis, 188 


Nasal catarrh, 139 
causes, symptoms, and treatment of, 139 
sounds, 126, 127 
Natural selection, 6 
Necreemia, 36 
Necrosis, 20 
Nematoda or nematode worms, 337 
Neolithic ages, horses introduced into Europe in, 4 
Nephritis, acute, 264 
morbid anatomy of, 266 
symptoms of, 265 
treatment of, 267 
Nervous system, diseases of, 278 
functions of, 279 
localization of functions of, 278 
Neuroglia, 278 
New growths, inflammation ending in, 21 
of the brain, 396 
heart, 196 
liver, 251 
Nitrate of urea, 257 
Nitrite of amyl in asthma, 165 
influence of, on the vaso-tonic nerves, 11 
Nitrogenous urine in azoturia, 116 
Nosology, 10 
Numerical atrophy, 28 
Nutmeg liver (see Congestion of the Liver). 


Obstruction, intestinal, 228 
(Edematous laryngitis, 140 
(Enanthe crocata, poisoning by, 366 
(Esophagus, acute inflammation of, 207 
spasm of, 208 
stricture of, 207 
(Estride, 344 
(Estrus equi, 344 
Oidium albicans, 38, 43 
Omentum, morbid growths in connexion with the, 242 
Oophoritis or ovaritis, 276 
Opiates in colic, 226 
enteritis, 235 
renal inflammation, 267 
Opisthotonos, 323 
Opium, poisoning by, 365 
Oscillation, stage of, in inflammation, 14 
Osseous tumours of the cranial walls, 296 


INDEX. 389 


Ovaritis, 276 
Oxalate of urea, 258 
Oxalic acid in the urine, 121 
Oxaluria, 120 
etiology of, 120 
lime in the drinking-water in, 121 
treatment of, 121 
Oxidation of the tissues in fever, 33 
Oxyuride, 337 
Oxyuris curvula, 342 


Pain, a clinical sign of inflammation, 15 
in liver diseases, 231 
Paleotherium, magnum, and medium, 3 
Palpation of the chest, 125 
Palpitation of the heart, 184 | 
treatment of, 185 
Palsy, lead, 256 
Panzootic catarrhal fever, 49 
Paracentesis abdominis, 243 
thoracis, 178 
indication for performance of, 178 
Paralysis, general 284 
local, 285 
motor, 283 
of the facial nerve, 285 
varieties of, 284 
Paraplegia, 284 
causes of, 285 
Paraplegia enzootica (or reflex paraplegia), 329 
nature and pathology of, 329 
symptoms of, 330 
prognosis and morbid anatomy of, 331 
treatment of, 351 
tc, animal, 332 
and vegetable, influence of, in the causation of disease, 9 
vegetable, 37 
Parasitic cause of surra, 84 
growths of the brain, 298 
Parenchymatous inflammation, 17 
Paresis, 283 
Parotitis, symptoms and treatment of, 204 
Parturient fever, 274 
Pasteur on anthrax, 42 
hydrophobia, 43 
perfection of the germ theory by, 38 
Pathogenic organisms in infective inflammation, 23 
Pathology, general, 11 
Pavy’s test for sugar in the urine, 116 
Peccary, 1 
Percussion in bronchitis, 144 


390 INDEX. 


Percussion in pleurisy, 173 
pneumonia, 160 
of the chest, 125 
Pericarditis, acute, 197 
, causes of, 197 
morbid anatomy of, 199 
symptoms of, 197 - 
treatment of, 199 
Pericardium, diseases of the, 197 
dropsy of the, 200 
friction of the, 198 
inflammation of, 197 
Peri-hepatitis, 248 
Perissodactyla, 1 
Peritonitis, causes and definition of, 239 
morbid anatomy and symptoms of, 240 
treatment of, 241 
Peritoneum, diseases of, 239 
new growths in, 243 
Petechie of scarlatina and purpura, 97 
Pettenkofer’s test for bile salts, 206 
Pharyngeal abscess, 206 
catarrh, 205 
symptoms and treatment of, 206 
Phlegmonous erysipelas, 64 
Physical examination of the chest, 124-131 
heart and pericardium, 179 
Physiology of the brain and spinal cord, remarks on, 278 
liver, remarks on, 244 
spleen, remarks on, 254 
Picric acid test for albumen in the urine, 263 
Pig, 1 
Pigmentary degeneration, 32 
matter in the urine, 259 
Pilocarpin in azoturia, 120 
Pink-eye, 51 
Placentation of the ungulata, 1 
Plague of London, 37 
Pleiocene cere 3 
Pleiohippus, 3 
Plethoric horses, bleeding of, in pneumonia, 162 
Pleura, diseases of the, 172 
Pleural friction, 130, 173 
Pleurisy, auscultation in, 173 
bleeding in, 176 
causes of, 172 
counter-irritation in, 177 
morbid anatomy of, 175 
paracentesis thoracis in, 178 
percussion in, 174 
physical signs in, 173, 174 


INDEX. 391 


Pleurisy, prognosis in, 175 
symptoms of, 173 
treatment of, 176 
Pleuritis (see Pleurisy). 
Pleurosthotonos, 323 
Pleximeter, 125 
Plumbism, acute, 356 
chronic, 357 
Pneumonia, acute, 154 
catarrhal, 154 — 
chronic or interstitial, 154 
etiology of, 154 
lobar and lobular, 154 
of glanders, 57 
of influenza, 52 
pathological lesions of, 155-157 
physical signs of, 160 
symptoms of, 159 
treatment of, 162 
varieties of, 154 
Poisoning by arsenic, 346 
antimony, 262 
bryony, 266 
cantharides, 267 
euphorbium or spurge, 267 
hellebore, 264 
lead, 256 
opium, 265 
savin, 266 
water drop-wort, 266 
yew-tree foliage, 263 
Poisons a cause of disease, 8 
Polystomide, 332 
Polyuria, 113 
Potatoes, raw, a cause of diarrhea, 219 
Predisposing causes of anthrax, 70 
Productive inflammation, 17 
Proglottides, 333 
Prognosis, 9 
Prophylaxis in anthrax, 79 
Prostate gland, enlargement of, 271 
Protohippus, 3 
Psammomata, 297 
Ptyalism, 205 
Pulmonary collapse, 146 
congestion, 149 
symptoms of, 150 
treatment of, 153 
Pulse, alterations of, in fever, 33 
Puncturing the colon, 227 
Pupa of the cestrus, 344 


392 INDEX. 


Purging, 219 
in the youny, 220 


Purpura hzemorrhagica, 90 
definition and etiology of, 90 


morbid anatomy and prognosis of, 92 
symptoms of, 90 
treatment of, 93 
Pus cells, 19 
characters and constituents of, 19 
in urine, 263 
reaction of, 19 
Pustular stomatitis, 203 
Pyzemia, 80 
definition and pathology of, 80 
symptoms of, in the horse, 83 
treatment of, 84 
Pyzmic abscesses, 82 
Pyelitis, 264 
Pyrexia, 32-34 


Quagga, 4 
Quality of food, its influence in the causation of disease, 201 


Rabies, definition and etiology of, 98 
incubation and symptoms of, 99 
morbid anatomy and treatment of, 100 
Rales, 130 
Reaction of healthy urine, 256 
Recurrent laryngeal nerve in roaring, 134 
Redux friction, 131, 174 
Reflex paraplegia, 329 
Renal calculi, 268, 269 
congestion, 263 
diseases, 263 
inflammation, 264 
Reproductory system, diseases of, 273 
Resolution of inflammation, 20 
Respiration, difficulty of, 124 
Respiratory system, diseases of, 124 
sounds, 126 
changes in the, 127 
Results of thrombosis, 25 
venous congestion, 12 
Retention of urine, 271 
Rheumatic form of influenza, 53 
fever, 101 
Rheumatism, definition and etiology of, 101 
morbid anatomy of, 102 
symptoms of, 101 
treatment of, 102 
chronic, 103 


INDEX. 393 


Rheumatism, muscular, 104 
varieties of, 101 
Rhinoceros, 1 
Rhonchi, 130 
Rhythm, cardiac, 180 
Rigors in fever, 33 
in glanders, 55 
Ringworm, cause of, 44 
Roaring, 134 
causes of, 135 
modes of detection of, 136 
pathology of, 134 
treatment of, 136 
Robertson, Professor, on diabetes insipidus, 114 
secondary bronchitis, 145 
Roman history, horses of, 5 
Round-worms, 337 
Rugs, methods of application of, 164 
Ruminants, 1 
Rupture of the heart, 195 
liver, 247 
intestines, 229 
stomach, 215 
Rye-grass, cause of reflex paraplegia, 329 
Ryneck on inflammation, 15 | 


Salicylate of sodium in influenza, 54 
in rheumatic fever, 102 
Saline matters of the urine, 259 
Salivation, causes and treatment of, 205 
Sanderson, Dr., on inflammation, 13 
the amount of indigo in the urine, 259 

Sanitation, imperfect, influence on the production of disease, 8 
Saturnine epilepsy, 356 
Savin, poisoning by, 366 
Scarlatina—scarlet fever, 94 

definition and etiology of, 94 

diagnosis of, 97 

morbid anatomy of, 97 

symptoms of scarlatina simplex, 94 

anginosa, 95 

treatment of, 97 
Scar tissue, 17 
Schizomycetes, 38 
Schwann on the germ theory, 38 
Sclerosis of nerve centres, 312 

etiology of, 312 
morbidanatomy, symptoms, and treatment of, 313 

Scolex, 334 
Scolices, 334 
Scriptural records of the horse, 4 


ee ee 


394 INDEX. 


eS ae 


Scrofula, 104 : 
occurrence in the horse, 105 
Scrofulous arthritis, 105 
Secondary bronchitis, 145 
enteritis, 231 
Selection, artificial, 5 
natural, 5 
Semeiology, 9 
Senftleben on inflammation, 15 
Septic infection, 41, 82 
inflammation, 22 
intoxication, 80 
Septiczemia, definition of, 80 
varieties of, 80 
Septiceemiz bacillus, 40 
Sequele of laryngitis, 141 
nephritis, 266 
strangles, 48 
‘Serous inflammation, 16 
Sex, influence of, in the causation of disease, 7 
Shivering nature, 315 
Sibilus, 130 
Signs of disease afforded by inspection and palpation, 124 
Simple atrophy, 28 
fever, 34 
inflammation, 21 
stomatitis, 203 
Sleepy staggers, 287 
Soft whistling, 133 
Soil, inftuence of, in the causation of anthrax, 71 
Sounds, absence of pleural, 174 ‘ 
pulmonary, 161 
bronchial, 128 
cardiac, 180 
friction, 130 
nasal, 126 
pulmonary, 129 
respiratory, 126 
tracheal, 126 
tubal, 129 
vesicular, 126 
Source of glycogen, 244 
urea, 244, 257 
Spanish breed of horses, 5 
Spasm of the cesophagus, 208 
Spasmodic colic, 224 
Spasms and convulsions, 283 
clonic, 283 
of tetanus, 319 
Specific inflammation, 23 
Spinal cord, acute inflammation of, 304 


INDEX. 395 


Spinal cord, acute inflammation of, symptoms, 305 
treatment of, 308 
chronic inflammation of, symptoms of, 306 
| treatment of, 308 
course of fibres in, 279. 
diseases of, 304 
functions of, 280 
inflammation of, 279 
hemorrhage into, 309 
morbid growths of, 309 
Spiroptera megastoma, 342 
microstoma, 343 
Spleen, cancer of the, 255 
diseases of the, 254 
extermination of the, 255 
functions of the, 254 
lymphadenoma of the, 255 
morbid growths of the, 255 
Splenic apoplexy, 42 
Spurge, poisoning by, 367 
Staggers, causes of, 286 
grass, 287, 329 
mad, 287, 288 
stomach, 210, 287 
: varieties of, 287 
Stasis in inflammation, 14 
Steppes-of Central Asia, horses of, 4 
Stethoscope, 126 
Stomach, diseases of, 208 
inflammation of, 213 
rupture of, 215 
staggers, 210 
vomition in rupture, 215 
Stomatitis, pustular, 203 
pustulosa-contagiosa, 121 
simple, 203 
varieties of, 202 
vesicular, 203 
Strangles, definition, etiology, and distribution of, 46 
symptoms of, 47 
treatment of, 48 
varieties of, 47 
Stricture of the cesophagus, 207 
String-halt, 314 
Strongylide, 337 
Strongylus armatus, 338 
microstoma, 343 
micrurus, 343 
tetracanthus, 340 
development of, 341 
Sulphite of soda in anthrax, 78 


396 INDEX. 


Sulphurous acid gas as a disinfectant, 62 
in bursatee, 113 
Sugar in the urine, 116, 263 
tests for, 116 
Suppression of bile, 253 
Suppuration, 19 
of the lung, 158 
Suppurative inflammation, 17 
Surra, definition of, 84 
etiology, morbid anatomy, and symptoms of, 85 
treatment of, 86 
Sympathetic system, functions of, 282 
Symptoms of disease, 9 
‘Syncope, 35 
Synonyms of anthrax, 69 
influenza, 49 
maladie du coit, 86 


Table, indicating the weight of the encephalon and spinal cord as com- 
pared with that of the body, 281 
Tapeworms, 333 
life-history of, 333 
treatment of, 334 
Tapiride, 2 
Tenia mamillana, perfoliata, and plicata, 334 
Teenie, larval forms and source of, 335 
Tartary, wild horses of, 4 
Telluric influences, 8 
Temperament, 8 
Temperature, in the causation of disease, 8 
in fever, 33 
Terminations of inflammation, 20 
Tetanus, 319 
definition, etiology, and general pathology of, 319 
liable to be caused by bots, 345 
morbid anatomy of, 326 
symptoms of, 323 
treatment of, 327 
varieties of, 323 
Theory, germ, explanation of, 37 
history of, 38 
Thoracic breathing, 240 
sounds, 126 
Thorax, auscultation of, 126 
inspection of, 124 
mensuration and percussion of, 125 
Throat, diseases of the, 202 
Thrombosis, causes of, 24 
definition of, 23 
results of, 25 
Thrombus, 23 


INDEX. 397 


Tinea favus, cause of, 44 
tonsurans, cause of, 44 
Tissue, adenoid, 255 
granulation, 17 
scar, 17 
Tongue, diseases of the, 204 
‘Tonic spasms, 283 
Toxicology, 346 
Tracheal sounds, abnormal and normal, 126, 127 
Tracheotomy in strangles, 49 
in roaring, 137 
method of performing, 49 
Traumatic peritonitis, 239 
tetanus, 319 
Trelut, M., on the treatment of maladie du coit, 89 
Trematoda, 332 
Tremors, 283 
Trichinide, 337 
Trichonema arcuata (see Strongylus tetracantnus). 
Trichocephalide, 337 
Trichophyton tonsurans, 9, 44 
Tricuspid regurgitation, 193 
Trismus, 323 — 
Tristomide, 332 
Trochar, use of, in flatulent colic, 227 
Trommer’s test for sugar in the urine, 116 
Tubal sounds, 129 
Tubercle, bacillus of, 40, 104 
varieties of, 104 
Tuberculosis, definition and pathology of, 104 
occurrence of in the horse, 105 
Tumours of the brain, 297 
choroid plexus, 297 
heart, 196 
kidneys, 251 
spinal cord, 309 
spleen, 255 
Turpentine in surra, 86 
Tympanitis, 225 
Tyrosin, 244 


Ulceration, 18, 19 
Ungulata, 1 
Unilateral paralysis, 284 
Uremia, 258 
Urea, composition of, 257 
excess of in azoturia, 116 
nitrate of, 257 
oxalate of, 258 
tests for, 257, 258 
source of, 257 


398 INDEX. 


Ureteral calculi, 268 
Uric acid, 258 
Urine, albumen in, 262 
bile pigment and salts in, 263 
blood in, 261 
composition of, 257 
extractives of, 259 
in azoturia, 116 
in disease, 261 
in health, 256 
in oxaluria, 120 
incontinence of, 272 4 
pus in, 263 
reaction of, 257 
retention of, 271 
saline constituents of, 259 
sugar in, 115, 263 
water of, 257 


Valvular diseases of the heart, causes of, 191 
symptoms and varieties of, 192 
treatment of, 194 
Valvular sounds, 182, 192 
Varieties of fever, 34 
inflammation, 16 

Variety as a cause of disease, 7 
Variola equina, definition of, 62 

prognosis of, 64 

symptoms of, 63 

treatment of, 64 
Vegetable parasites, 37 
Vene galeni, pressure on, a cause of hydrocephalus, 293 
Ventilation, imperfect, 8 
Verminous aneurism, 339 
Vertigo, 287 
Vesication in pneumonia, 164 
Vesicles in purpura hemorrhagica, 91 
Vesicular breathing, 126 

emphysema, 171 
stomatitis, 203 

Virus of contagious diseases, 37 


Vomition, causes of, 209 
in antimony poisoning, 362 
in hellebore poisoning, 364 
relation to rupture of the stomach, 215 
symptoms of, 209 
Von Bibra, analysis of urinary deposits by, 260 


Water, deficiency of, in the urine, 261 
excess of, in the urine, 261 


drop-wort, poisoning by, 366 


INDEX. 


Water, presence of lead in, 356 
Watson, Sir Thomas, on tetanus, 322 
Waxy degeneration (see Lardaceous degeneration). 
Whistling, lesions of, 133 
varieties of, 132, 133 
White matter in the brain and cord, 276 


Williams, Professor, on scarlatina, 97 
the treatment of pneumonia, 163 


Work, influence of, in the causation of disease, 8 


Worms, a cause of ‘colic, 223 
lumbricoid, 337 


Yeasts, 38, 43 

Yellow tubercle, 104 

Yellow-coloured mucous membranes, 253 
Yellows, the, 252 

Yew-tree foliage, poisoning by, 363 
Young, diarrhcea in the, 220 


Zebra, 4 


Ziegler on infective granulomata, 22 
Zoogleea, 39 


THE END. 


Bailliére, Tindall, & Cox, 20, King William Street, Strand. 


399 


BAILLIERE, TINDALL, AND COX’S WORKS 


VETERINARY MEDICINE AND SURGERY. 


Beacock. Prize Essay on the Breeding, Rearing, and 
Fattening of Cattle and Sheep, and Proper Treatment of Cows at 
time of Calving. By JosepH Bracocgk. Price 3d. 


Chauveau—Fleming. The Comparative Anatomy of the 
Domesticated Animals. By A. CHAUVEAU, Professor at the Lyons 
Veterinary School, and Grorce Friemine, M.R.C.V.S. 450 en- 
gravings. Price 31s. 6d. 

—— The Original Work in French. Price 20s. 

Fearnley. A Text-book on the Examination of Horses as 
to Soundness. A Course of Lectures enlarged, delivered at the 
Royal Veterinary College, Edinburgh. By Professor FEARNLEY, 
with an Appendix on the Law of Horses and Warranty. Price 
7s. 6d. 

Fleming. A Text-book of Veterinary Obstetrics, including 
the Diseases and Accidents incidental to Pregnancy, Parturition, 
and Early Age in the Domesticated Animals. By GEORGE FLEMING, 
LL.D., F.R.C.V.S., F.R.G.S., President of the Royal College of 
Veterinary Surgeons, Principal of the Army Veterinary Depart- 
ment. Profusely illustrated. Cloth, price 30s. 


‘Has filled up a void in a more satisfactory and complete way than any other 
member of his profession could have done.’—The Field. 

‘No man who makes any pretensions to veterinary science or stock breeding 
ean dispense with this work.’—Live Stock Journal. 


— A Text-book of Operative Veterinary Surgery. 
Part L, 10s. 6d. 

The Infinence of Heredity and Contagion on the 
Propagation of Tuberculoses. Price 6s. 

The Contagious Diseases of Animals: their Influence 
on the Wealth and Health of the Nation. Read before the Society 
of Arts. Price 6d. 

——— Animal Plagues: their History from the Earliest 
Times, Nature, and Prevention. Vol. I., to 1799. Price 15s. 
—- Vol. IL, from 1800 to 1844. Price 12s. 


- Tuberculosis from a Sanitary and Pathological Point 
of View. Price 1s. 


— Human and Animal Variole. <A Study of Com- 
parative Pathology. Price ls. 

— Practical Horse-shoeing. With 37 illustrations. 
Third edition, enlarged. 8vo., sewed. Price 2s. 


A Manual of Veterinary Sanitary Science and 
Police. 2 vols. With 33 illustrations, Demy 8vo. Price 36s. 


BAILLIERE, TINDALL, AND COX’S PUBLICATIONS. 


Hill. The Management and Diseases of the Dog. Copiously 
illustrated. By J. Wooprorre Hiu, F.R.C.V.S. Second edi- 
tion. 10s. 6d. 


‘Contains much valuable information.’— The Field. 


Principles and Practice of Bovine Medicine and 


Surgery. Copiously illustrated with woodcuts and coloured 
plates. Price 36s. 


Lambert. The Germ Theory of Disease, Concisely and 
Simply Explained. Illustrated by Diagrams and References to 
Important Diseases of Domestic Animals, etc. By JAMES Lam- 
BERT, F.R.C.V.S., Army Veterinary Department, Inspecting 
Veterinary Surgeon for Ireland. Price 1s. 


Meyrick. Stable Management and the Prevention of 
Diseases among Horses in India. By J. J. Meyrick, F.R.C.V.S., 
Principal Army Veterinary Surgeon to H.M. Cavalry in Egypt. 
Formerly Assistant Superintendent of Horse Breeding for the 
Punjab. Price 2s. 6d. 


Reynolds. ‘The Breeding, Rearing, and Management of 
Draught Horses. By RIcHARD REYNOLDS, M.R.C.V.S. Price 3s. 6d. 


Robertson. A Handbook of the Practice of Equine Medi- 
cine. By WitiiAM Rosertson, F.R.C.V.S., Principal and Pro- 


fessor of Hippopathology in the Royal Veterinary College, London. 
Price 25s. 


Strangeways. Veterinary Anatomy. Second-edition. By 
Professor VAUGHAN, Lecturer on Anatomy and Zoology at the 
New Veterinary College, Edinburgh. Price 24s. 


Tellor. The Diseases of Live Stock and their most Effi- 
cient Remedies ; including Horses, Cattle, Sheep, and Swine. By 
Luoyp V. Tettor. Price 10s. 6d. 


Veterinary Diagrams in Tubular Form. [Illustrated with 
coloured and plain engravings. Size of sheet, 285 by 22 inches. 
Price per set of Five, 12s.; or mounted on roller and varnished, 
27s. ; or separately as follows : 

No. 1.—The External Form and Elementary Anatomy of the 
Horse. Price 3s. 6d., or mounted on roller and varnished, 6s. 6d. 

No. 2.—The Unsoundness and Defects of the Horse. Price 
2s. 6d., or mounted on roller and varnished, 5s. 6d. 

No. 3.—The Age of Domestic Animals. Price 2s. 6d., or 
mounted on roller and varnished, 5s. 6d. 

No. 4.—The Shoeing of the Horse, Mule, and Ox. Price 2s. 6d., 
or mounted on roller and varnished, 5s. 6d. 

No. 5.—The Elementary Anatomy, Points and Butcher’s Joints 
of the Ox. Price 38s. 6d., or mounted on roller and varnished, 6s. 6d. 


The Veterinary Journal and Annals of Comparative 
PatHotocy. Monthly, price 1s. 6d. Annual Subscription, 18s. 


prepaid. 
y  < 


' 


% 
‘ 
4 
‘ 
‘ 
v% 
ph 
s 
= 
S 


>] 
4 
S 
iva” 
fa 
‘ 
' y 
rey 
a | 
i 
r 
ay 


e eh) 
La 
‘ 
) 
4 
La 
’ 
t 
I 
ip 
’ 
\ 
i 
oD] 
{f 
fi 
~ 
i 


\ 


2 069164579 


